Digital game-based learning (DGBL) enhances the learning process by adding components of games around the educational elements, making the entire process interesting and lively to the learners. Made possible by technology and interactivity, this approach has transformed a lot of practices in learning, thus being widely accepted by instructors and students. Below are five major advantages of online game based learning:
- Increased Engagement and Motivation
Enhancing students’ engagement is perhaps the greatest strength of digital game-based learning. Most learners will be drawn into the game because of the interactivity and the environments created in the games. The enhanced engagement leads the students to be more involved in the learning, and even in their studies, they are not easily demoralized by difficult subject matters. But in turn, because of the enjoyable nature of the games, all the students manage to keep their spirits high and learn.
- Encourages Learning by Doing
With the help of computer games, attitudes to education change as they stimulate learning by doing students are no longer spectators who absorb information passively. Inside a game, students are required to make decisions, to solve problems, and to try out different ways of playing. This practical method encourages students to think more critically and understand better the information allowing better storage of such information. It helps learners to understand concepts in practice, thereby facilitating learning with purpose.
- Personalized Learning Experience
The incorporation of modern technology within education facilitates a student-centred learning approach. In many learning games, the content adjusts according to the user’s pace and aptitude level. Students can attempt the levels as many times as they wish, review certain aspects before progressing and only move on when they feel ready. This personalization makes it possible for each of them to improve at their own pace, making it easier for them to understand the material before proceeding to another topic.
- Promotes Teamwork and Prevents Antisocial Behaviour
Most online games are designed for two or more players; thus, they are focused on cooperation. Students frequently help one another with project tasks, share their ideas for their performances and find the ways to the final objective together. It has social benefits as well, like the development of necessary communication, conflict resolution, and executive abilities. They motivate students to give and receive assistance leading to a more enhanced practice of the said subject.
- Skill Acquisition and Direct Evaluation of Progress
In computer games, players are usually given instant results, this serves to correct the players by learning from their past actions and coming up with new tactics. Such feedback aids in learning and motivates a sense of dissatisfaction for achieving better results. Also, the nature of these games makes it possible to train certain aspects of a person for example, critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management skills. Students practice these skills while playing the games but, such skills are also applicable in real life.
To sum up, one of the best characteristics of digital game based learning is the interactive and stimulating learning environment that it creates which encourages interaction, participation and skills acquisition. When games are incorporated into the education systems, students understand better the subjects with the aid of technology and great teamwork, and in a much more enjoyable way. This not only improves academic performance but instills the passion for learning making education enjoyable and effective.