Game-based learning

Quite often, when I listen to presentations on game-based learning, it is touted as the magical and potent solution for learning innovation. I have never actually question this perception before until I started playing RPG games on Facebook. These games have a tendency to encourage you to gather and link up with other users of Facebook (most likely for the financial gains of the developers) to accomplish the missions or quests. I do not complain about this because I always keep the games from taking anything out of my pocket. ;-) I also like the idea of having a common interest which I can share with peoples from different countries and background. It's kind of like a virtual United Nations.

What I notice from the nature of the gamers is they have different tendencies and methods to solve any gaming tasks or issues they face. These methods and solutions are not much different from what we do when we learn or study for a course as a student. Some are generous and share in detail what they have learned to the point of preparing extensive manual guides to all other gamers. On the opposite end of the spectrum will be those who are quick to start a totally new forum just to get quick answers without even bothering to check whether the questions raised have already been answered by others in earlier forums. Therefore, the knowledge base generated for the benefit of all is not utilized. There are those like me who would take the time to look through the forums to check for possible answers and contribute in meagre ways what we know to the general audience and feeling satisfied and happy when we are given a praise or two.

On how the game is played, some will actually study the details and do the mathematics simply for the fun of learning about the game. These are usually the ones who would also be eager to share what they have learned. On the opposite, some are in it just for the rush of the moment, to complete all the missions and get the emotional high out of it. Knowledge about the game is not important, only the fun element is essential. Of course, sandwiched in between the two opposite ends would be the in betweens like me and many others.

This observation gives me an anecdotal conclusion that despite what is often said about game-based learning, the games do not actually dictate how the gamers will respond. The characteristics and tendencies of the gamers still play a large role on how they will learn from the process. Not doubt, gaming will enhance positive elements of learning but it can also do the same for the negatives. Getting the right mix and hoping for a correct response from the learners will still be an elusive solution that most of us in the educational field hope to achieve.