Are Video Games the future of Education?
Imagine a school where playing video games is encouraged during classes and may even replace exams. A new educational programme uses SimCity to test children on vital problem-solving skills. BBC Future spoke to Jessica Lindl, general manager of GlassLab, at the Silicon Valley-based gaming company, EA (Electronic Arts) about how games could prepare children for jobs...
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Well sure, video games can work as educational tools, providing a fun way for students to learn skills, especially more abstract ones. And just like how this video shows an adaptation of SimCity to fit the classroom, MinecraftEdu does the same thing with Minecraft. In fact I think MinecraftEdu has even more potential than SimCity!
But replace exams? That part is dubious. It would take a lot of time and paradigm-shifting before employers all over would recognise the abilities demonstrated by the student/gamer through the game, and see how that is applicable in the relevant jobs. Not to mention it's not easy to come up with standardised AND reliable tests for the students using the games!
I don't think these games will completely replace exams, but I do like how this idea is evolving. I wish I could have played more "hands on" games in the classroom as that sort of engagement can help expand the mind. You mentioned MinecraftEdu... yes, what an awesome concept! Another game that kids should be playing is Portal 1 & 2, there are so many damn good puzzles in that game, it would surely keep the brain busy figuring them out.
Edit: BTW, welcome to snapzu!