Module 6: Gamification in the classroom

As an educator I am constantly trying to find ways to keep my classroom up to par especially with the most recent technology. Who would have ever thought playing games would be considered educational? What kind of gamification software can be implemented in a classroom setting? I have implemented software such as Kahoot and class Dojo during student teaching and sporadically in my classroom. The benefits of gamification in the classroom are out of this world! 

 

History of gamification:

The concept of gamification has been around for more than 100 years (Smith, 2014). Gamification has only recently become an interest to educators due to recent improvements and advancements in technology (Smith, 2014). When did gamification enter the world of education? In 1980 Thomas Malone published, “What Makes Things Fun to Learn: A study of Intrinsically Motivating Computer Games” (Smith, 2014). In 2003 the term gamification was created by Nick Pelling (Smith, 2014). Quest to Learn accepted a class of 6^th graders into a game-based learning environment in 2009 (Smith, 2014). In 2014 M2 Research predicts that gamification will be a 2.8-billion-dollar industry by 2016 (Smith, 2014).

 

What is Gamification?

Gamification is utilizing a challenge or game to teach or support classroom concepts (Specialty, 2020). Teachers have previously implemented methods to make learning fun such as songs, and hands-on activities. Incorporating gamification allows educators to make learning more engaging for all learners! 

 

Benefits of implementing Gamification in the classroom: (True Education, 2020)

·      Students feel like they have ownership over their learning

·      A more relaxed atmosphere in regards to failure, since learners can simply try again

·      More fun in the classroom

·      Learning becomes visible through progress indicators

·      Students may uncover an intrinsic motivation for learning

·      Students can explore different identities through different avatars or characters

·      Students often are more comfortable in gaming environments, so are more proactive and open to making mistakes

·      Higher engagement and concentration levels amongst students

·      The opportunity to think outside of the box. Tasks are no longer just about filling in a worksheet.

 

Software that can help with gamification: (Jarrett, 2017)

·      Class Dojo

·      Kahoot

·      Brainscape

·      Quizizz

·      Classcraft

·      KnowRe

Why incorporate gamification in the classroom setting?

How many students play video games? How many individuals are addicted to video games due to the amazing features? Could the implementation of gamification be beneficial for learners? The gamification theory in education is that learners learn best when they are also having fun (True Education, 2020)! Gamification helps to motivate students as well as keep them more engaged in classroom tasks. Gamification in learning involves using game-based elements such as point scoring, peer competition, team work, score tables to drive engagement, help students assimilate new information and test their knowledge (True Education, 2020).

 

Gamification and English Language Learners:

Gamification is beneficial for various and all learners. As previously stated above, learners learn best when they are also having fun! Games are a great way to keep students actively engaged. English Language Learners tend to face many challenges. One challenge they are often faced with is self-esteem issues which leads to them being hesitant and shy causing them to struggle with class engagement. Gamification is beneficial for English language learners because it increases student engagement, it creates a bond between students, and reinforcers their learning.

 

 

References:

Blankman, R. (2022, June 28). The fun of learning: Gamification in education. What Is Gamification in Education? | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Retrieved July 17, 2022, from https://www.hmhco.com/blog/what-is-gamification-in-education

Gamification in education: What is it & how can you use it? True Education Partnerships. (2020, April 1). Retrieved July 17, 2022, from https://www.trueeducationpartnerships.com/schools/gamification-in-education/

Home. Saddleback Educational Publishing | Hi-Lo Books™. (n.d.). Retrieved July 17, 2022, from https://www.sdlback.com/webinar-series/gamification-for-ells

 

Jarrett, N. (2017, July 11). How to gamify your classroom. EDTECH 4 BEGINNERS. Retrieved July 17, 2022, fromhttps://edtech4beginners.com/2016/11/16/how-to-gamify-your-classroom/

Specialty, S. (2022, June 24). The benefits of using gamification in the classroom. Schoolyard Blog | Teacher Resources | School Specialty. Retrieved July 17, 2022, from https://blog.schoolspecialty.com/the-importance-of-gamification-in-the-classroom/

Smith, F. (July 11, 2014) A Brief History of Gamification. EdTechMagazine. 

Retrieved from: https://edtechmagazine.com/higher/article/2014/07/brief-history-gamification-infographic

Module 5: Social Media in the classroom

As an educator I am constantly trying to find ways to keep my classroom up to par especially with the most recent technology. Did you ever think you could incorporate social media networks into your classroom? What kind of social media platforms are there and how could they be implemented into a classroom setting? Did you know, students are currently experiencing an exchange of ideas, resources, and information beyond textbooks and classroom lectures using social media (Kiiky, 2022). There are serval pros and cons in regards to social media but I could not believe how beneficial social media networks could be in a school setting. 

 

History of social media 

In 1997 the first recognizable social media site, Six Degrees was created (Hendricks, 2021). The site enabled users to upload a profile and connect and develop friendships with other users. Two years later in 1999, the first blog sites became popular, creating a social media sensation that’s still popular today (Hendricks, 2021). After blogs, a whole new world of social media sites bloomed. In the Early 2000’s sites such as myspace and Linkedln became well known and implemented (Hendricks, 2021). In 2005, YouTube was introduced to the world and it was a great resource for individuals to communicate with one another regardless of distance. Some of the most well-known and most implemented sites came about by 2006. Sites such as Facebook and twitter. From here other sites such as Tumblr, Spotify, and Pinterest came about (Hendricks, 2021).

What is social media?

Social media is a means of sharing ideas, thoughts, and information via the internet. People use social media to stay in touch with friends and family. Accessing social media has become effortless due to applications on mobile devices. Social media has different categories based on their various functions (Kiiky, 2022).

 

Benefits of social media in Education:

According to the article, “20 Benefits of Social Media for Students in 2022” individuals believe social media in education should be encouraged even though some believe it to be a huge distraction for students. Some of the benefits include the fact that it is an educational tool, you can share information, news updates, research work, distance learning opportunities, increased social interactions among students, creating digital portfolios and so much more (Kiiky, 2022)! Social media allow students especially students who may be shy more opportunities for communication. Many students who may not like to speak publicly would benefit from “speaking” on social media platforms. Social media platforms can also improve writing skills. I believe there are several benefits for students and the implementation of social media.

 

  

Types of Social Media Platforms

·      Facebook

·      Twitter

·      MySpace

·      Reddit

·      Quora

·      Snapchat

·      Instagram

Why incorporate Social Media platforms in the classroom setting?

Many students have access to various social media platforms at their fingertips, literally! According to the article “Using Social Media in the Classroom”, social media can be a powerful educational tool that provides unique and dynamic learning experiences to students and teachers alike. Social media is second nature to many of today’s students. Let’s look at some platforms and how they can be implemented:

Facebook and Twitter: (Spanella)

·      Posting assignments/homework as a reminder to complete assignments

·      Bonus points can be provided to students who answer posted questions correctly

·      Students can share online resources related to the coursework

·      Teachers can facilitate online discussions about course material

YouTube: (Spanella)

·      Teachers can post videos that explain how to navigate specific assignments

·      Students can create and post videos for others to view.

Blogs: (Spanella)

·      Students can share information learned with others by hosting blogs

·      Students can reflect on what they have learned through blogs

·      Teachers can post blogs to keep parents informed

·      Online discussion forums can be created to further discuss

Social Media and English Language Learners:

Social media is beneficial for various learners. One challenge English Language Learners are typically faced with is self-esteem issues which leads into being unable to communicate with their teachers and peers. Social media allows students, especially students who may be shy, more opportunities for communication. Many students who may not like to speak publicly would benefit from “speaking” on social media platforms. Social media platforms can also improve writing skills.

 

 

 

 

 

 

References:

 

20 benefits of social media for students in 2022. Kiiky. (2022, May 31). Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://kiiky.com/how-social-media-benefits-students/  

Hendricks, D. (2021, January 22). Complete history of social media: Then and now. Small Business Trends. Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://smallbiztrends.com/2013/05/the-complete-history-of-social-media-infographic.html

Spanella, T. (n.d.). Take online courses. earn college credit. Research Schools, Degrees & Careers. Study.com | Take Online Courses. Earn College Credit. Research Schools, Degrees & Careers. Retrieved July 14, 2022, from https://study.com/academy/lesson/using-social-media-in-the-classroom.html

 

 

Module 4: Screencasts

 

As an educator one thing I tend to do frequently is self-reflect. I am constantly asking myself, what can I do different to ensure student success. Having a diverse group of learners one thing I do habitually is modify my lessons to ensure I meet the needs of all my learners. Prior to the pandemic my students would receive their iPads as a means of reinforcement. Ever since the pandemic my students have been taught how to use their iPads for academic purposes (if I’m being honest, it wasn’t the easiest transition at first) My students have adapted well to implementing their iPads for academics. As an educator I am beyond excited to begin implementing screencasts in my classroom!

 

History of Screencasting

Screen cams aka Screencast have been talked about since the early 1900’s. In 2004 the terms screencast and screen record became more common due to Jon Udell inviting people to suggest a name for an emerging genre of recording screens and creating movies on his blog (Golightly, 2021).  Jon Udell decided to incorporate the name screencast which was proposed to two others, Joseph McDonald and Deeje Cooley. The term has become widely used and is a part of what we do on the internet daily around the world (Golightly, 2021). 

 

What is Screencasting?

A screencast is a digital video recording of your computer screen. The recording captures every movement on your screen and typically includes audio narration but they can also be created without audio. You can also enhance the recording with background music and captions (Rithu, 2022).

 

Benefits of Screencasting in Education:

There are several benefits of implementing screencasts. One major benefit of screencasting is that they can be modified to meet the needs of all learners. Another benefit is the ability to view the screencast at the viewers discretion. The ability for individuals to work at their own pace is extremely beneficial as well. Individuals can be in control by pausing and re-watching certain areas they may need to review. Screen casting offers 24/7 access to learning and they can also help improve students’ attention and retention (Nguyen, 2022).

 

Creating a screencast in 5 simple steps: (Rithu, 2022)

Step 1: Download a screen recording software

Step 2: Customize your preferences and start rehearsing

Step 3: Start recording

Step 4: Edit your recording

Step 5: Download, share, and upload your recording

 

Types of Screencasts:

·      Tutorials

·      Video lessons

·      Presentations

·      Small group instruction

·      Slideshows

·      Digital subplans

·      Training videos

 

Why incorporate Screencasting in the classroom setting?

The implementation of technology in the school setting has been advancing through the years! As an educator I believe technology to be an effective classroom tool. Screencasting is beneficial for students as well as educators. Screencasts can be implemented for virtually anything. Teachers have the ability to record their daily schedules/routines which can help students who may have trouble with transitions. A step-by-step tutorial can be made to show students how to login into websites/applications to avoid interruptions during direct instruction. As an educator you can pretty much create a screencast for any or all lessons. Screencasts will always be available for students to reflect back on should they need to.

 

In my classroom I do a lot of repetition because my students learn best with repetition and it helps them retain the information taught. Screencasts will allow me the ability to ensure repetition in my classroom without me repeating myself what feels like a trillion times! How convenient is that? My motto is, “Work Smarter, Not Harder”! Screencasts will give me the ability to do just that!

Screencasting for English Language Learners:

As previously stated screencasting is beneficial for all learners. Just like digital stories, screencasts allow all students including English language learners to take ownership of their learning. Skills screencast promote which are beneficial to English Language Learners are writing, reading, and speaking.

 

 

 

 

 

 

References:

 

Golightly, D. (2021, December 17). What is screencasting all about and why should I do it? Using Technology Better. Retrieved July 6, 2022, from https://usingtechnologybetter.com/blog/what-is-screencasting-all-about-and-why-should-i-do-it/

Nguyen, V. A. (2022, July 5). Benefits of screencasting for teachers and students. Atomi Systems, Inc. Retrieved July 7, 2022, from https://atomisystems.com/screencasting/benefits-screencasting-for-teachers-and-students/

Rithu, V. (2022, June 19). The ultimate guide: What is a screencast & how does it work? (2021). Vmaker Blog: Best of Video Communication and Screen Recording from Vmaker. Retrieved July 7, 2022, from https://www.vmaker.com/blog/ultimate-guide-what-is-screencast-how-to-create-one/