Education experts say that gameplay in school is not just about having fun. Many teachers use games and gaming principles to enhance instruction. In short, almost all the games can ensure a more collaborative and engaging classroom experience. They work especially well for students who have issues with focusing and finding their learning interests. During the COVID-19 pandemic, video games also played an important role, keeping students connected and motivated remotely. 

All these claims are not just based on someone’s subjective experience. Multiple studies show that using games in a classroom promotes student participation, fosters social and emotional learning as well as motivates students to take more risks. Some research based on the popular quiz game Kahoot revealed that it boosted students’ academic scores. Moreover, researchers argue that virtual games can significantly enhance attention for students with ADHD and dyslexia. 

However, games shouldn’t be considered substitutes for other forms of learning. Besides, similar to any educational tool, games must be well-planned and integrated only in case they are relevant to the learning objectives.

Games as a valuable teaching tool 

Many games require players to make immediate in-the-moment decisions, which is a valuable skill as you go through life. With games, one can quickly see the impact of their choices in a low-risk environment. And if it’s negative, you can try again and again to get some improvements. 

What’s more, role-playing games can help students see different perspectives. By the way, this is extremely important for successful studies. Almost every task given at school or college requires learners to look at things from different perspectives, especially when it comes to essay writing. If you haven’t developed this skill set, you can see what a perfect essay looks like at Samplius, which is a special website helping students with their homework in almost any discipline. There you can find great essay samples and improve your academic skills. 

Games are a vital teaching tool because they are interactive, unlike books and videos that involve passive consumption. Hence, games encourage students to explore new topics and learning approaches. Even if learners don’t use video games, they can still benefit from gamification in the classroom. This is a process that includes such game components as points, leaderboards, and badges incorporated into lessons to boost motivation. 

Video games that can educate you

The list of games that can help players learn new skills can be quite long. Below, we picked the best options to try out. 

Minecraft

In Minecraft, you are expected to build worlds by exploring, gathering resources, crafting tools, and engaging in some combat. You can be flexible and choose from different modes of this game: survival, creative, adventure, spectator, and multiplayer. Minecraft provides great creative freedom and self-direction, teaching teamwork and collaboration. One can significantly boost their imagination and problem-solving skills by playing Minecraft. 

The Oregon Trail

This old-school game requires players to safely get a train to a certain destination. Before your trip starts, you can pick a job, find companions and purchase supplies for it. In a recent version of The Oregon Trail, players can trade, upgrade their wagons and buy food or medicine to increase their chances of survival. During the trip, you will encounter some troubles, such as illnesses, highway bandits, food constraints, and obstructive rivers. By overcoming them, you can learn about pre-planning and improve your problem-solving skills. The Oregon Trail also teaches to make choices with the long term in mind.

Wordscapes

If you are looking for a fun brainteaser game, Wordscapes would be a perfect option for you. You are supposed to solve crossword-style puzzles using a handful of letters. This game allows you to learn new words and improve your logic skills. For consistent playing, Wordscapes offers challenging daily puzzles. By the way, this game has a built-in dictionary that makes it easier to add to your vocabulary. 

Portal series

This is another puzzle game released in 2012. Even though it’s not new, it still feels fresh for players. In Portal, players are put in a secret research facility that imposes a series of dangerous tests. To win a game, you need to solve puzzles and create a portal in a wall for exiting. Advancement is possible if you learn how to manipulate spatial constraints. Hence, this game can teach you some physics and math skills as well as enhance your logic and problem-solving. 

Democracy series

Have you ever wanted to be in politics and run the country? If yes, then the Democracy series is a must for you. This game allows you to try your hand at it. Basically, this is a government simulation game where you play the role of a president or prime minister of a democratic government. Your job is to set policies in different areas, including economy, welfare, international relationships, law, transport, and public services. Note that each policy alteration affects numerous factors such as citizens’ well-being, crime rates, and environmental conditions. By playing the Democracy series, you can learn about different layers of government and gain such skills as strategy development and conflict resolution.

Final thoughts

Games play an important role in education if used smartly. Hopefully, now you realize how video games help with studying by developing a wide range of skills. Check the gaming options listed above to get some educational benefits for yourself.