Creating Computer Games for Class Instruction

Advantages And Limitations

The inclusion of educational gaming has become an important component of instructional methodology, and a plethora of computer games are available to complement a variety of instructional areas. Educational games can be used in variety of instructional modes, from whole class to individual activities, and are an effective way to gain student attention to learn a specific topic or skill (Gredler, 2004). Well-designed games are quite challenging for the players while, at the same time, requiring the application of particular knowledge or skills (Smaldino, Lowther, & Russell, 2008).

There are many advantages of using educational games. According to Gredler (2004), educational games may fulfill any of the following purposes: 1) to practice and/or refine already acquired knowledge and skills, 2) to identify gaps or weaknesses in knowledge or skills, 3) to serve as a summation or review, and 4) to develop new relationships among concepts and principles. Games with the effective use of pedagogical design principles allow the teacher to address various learning styles. Therefore, students are quickly engaged in learning, and teachers address the learning needs of various age groups, cultures, learners, and learners with disabilities.