Game-based learning is an increasingly popular approach to teaching and learning, as it provides an engaging and interactive way for students to learn. Problem-based learning (PBL) is a framework that can be used to design games and game-based learning experiences. PBL is a student-centered approach that encourages students to work together to solve real-world problems.
In PBL, the teacher presents a problem or challenge for the students to solve. The students then work together in small groups or individually to identify the problem, brainstorm solutions, and develop strategies for solving it. This process encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.
The same principles of PBL can be applied when designing games and game-based learning experiences. Games are often designed around a central problem or challenge that players must solve in order to progress through the game. By using PBL as a framework for game design, developers can create games that are engaging and educational at the same time.
For example, a game could be designed around solving environmental problems such as climate change or pollution. Players would have to work together to identify the problem, brainstorm solutions, and develop strategies for solving it. This type of game would not only be fun but also educational as players learn about environmental issues while playing the game.
PBL can also be used when creating game-based learning experiences such as virtual reality simulations or augmented reality apps. In these types of experiences, players are presented with a problem or challenge that they must solve in order to progress through the experience. This type of experience encourages critical thinking and collaboration while providing an engaging way for students to learn about topics such as history or science.
Five components from PBL processes to form the cycle of effectively implementing video games for learning by William R. Watson, Purdue University, USA and Jun Fang, Purdue University, USA
Overall, problem-based learning is an effective framework for designing games and game-based learning experiences that are both fun and educational at the same time. By using PBL as a framework for game design, developers can create engaging experiences that encourage critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and problem solving skills in players of all ages.