Week 11

This week's question:

This week's blog is based on Mr Jason Turnbulls lecture. Identify one of the key points which was made in the lecture and explain why you thought it was important from a classroom perspective.

In the lecture Mr Jason Turbull suggested that play is the 'native language of human learning'. He suggests that as we engage in 'play' in our youth and as adults we are involved in a process of learning. This process involves exploration, practice, re-invention of self and socialisation.

There is no doubt that children and adults have become very active and engaged in a digital game culture. Part of the attraction of games could therefore be seen as the challenge of learning through play. Players explore new worlds, practice game playing skills and take on the role of a characters as they gain experience and progress through game levels. Game players then share their experiences and tips with other people who share a common interest in the game.

From a teacher's perspective it may be of interest to explore the possibility of designing learning experiences that are based on some of the principals of game play. As Jason Turbull suggested, instead of progressing linearly through an activity we could allow students to 'jump around and try out new things'. Teachers could immerse students in an activity by creating a role for them to play such as an 'environmental scientist'. As students uncover facts or solve problems they could be rewarded with 'experience points' that allow them to progress further in an activity. What teachers should be asking is 'How can we put the play (fun) back in to our classrooms?'.