The game-based learning theory implies a novel way of training company employees. We refer to the simple use of games to learn. The offer of gamified content is increasingly wide and varied, with video games for almost all audiences and sectors.
In the corporate sphere, this methodology is experiencing an indisputable boom, but many are unaware of the reasons. These are the principles on which training through video games is based:
Constructivist learning
Game-based learning is based on constructivist learning. What does this mean? Constructivism postulates the need to give the student the necessary tools so that he himself can build his own procedures to solve a problem. This implies a participatory process on the part of the student, who interacts with her environment to resolve the situation that arises.
Practice, experience and interaction
Practice without risk, experiential learning and interaction are the pillars on which the theory of game-based learning is based. Learning through play allows students to experiment in non-threatening settings and gain knowledge through practice and social interaction with the environment and peers.
Motivating approach
One of the strengths of game-based learning is its recognized ability to capture the attention of students and guarantee their total involvement – engagement. The motivating approach of the games turns the learning process into something dynamic and interesting, whose attractiveness is maintained throughout the development until the achievement of the objectives.
Promoting reflection
In addition to the motivation and playful approach, the GBL raises situations that require reflection and decision making by the student, to solve a problem. In this way, the participant acquires knowledge and assimilates the concepts while developing cognitive abilities derived from critical thinking, reality analysis and conflict resolution.
Feedback and self-control
Unlike more traditional pedagogical methods, game-based learning allows the person being trained to be in control of their own learning. Through serious games, students obtain instant and personalized feedback regarding their knowledge and each one is aware of what they learn and what they should reinforce.
Process monitoring
Of course, feedback and control over learning is not the exclusive property of the student. In addition to the scoring system and the progressive improvement of the levels or the training itself, everything is recorded in the program.
In this way, those responsible for the training actions can study the choices that the student has made, his successes and errors, the decisions that he has been making along the way. This system offers a large amount of information to check the level of understanding of the participants, their weaknesses and strengths and, most importantly, ensures that the person effectively acquires the knowledge and skills on which they have worked.
Creativity
The game-based learning theory cannot ignore the benefit of creativity that new ways of learning provide. The game enhances that creativity and motivation by posing challenges and problems that students must solve with their imagination.
Soft skills
If game-based learning is used to learn social skills and develop soft skills, interactivity and collaboration between participants is accentuated. The practice focuses on working on aspects such as emotional intelligence, leadership skills, communication, self-control, negotiation skills and conflict resolution, etc. Capacities all of which are impossible to learn without practice, which game-based learning simulators facilitate in an exceptional way.
Digitization
Another of the advantages of game-based learning is the opportunity for users to improve their computer skills and the use of digital devices, essential for personal and professional development in the 21st century.
A GBL learning program implemented in a corporate environment is more likely to be successful than a “classic” training action, be it traditional e-learning or face-to-face learning. Knowledge retention is much higher through gamification, which guarantees effective and dynamic learning. Cost savings is another of the enormous advantages due to flexibility in time and space.
The game-based learning methodology offered by Gamelearn is based on three fundamental pillars, keys to its success at an international level: quality content, simulators and gamification.
