Games can have a huge impact in any classroom. Children usually get excited when you mention that the class will be playing a game today instead of the typical lecture that so many are used to. I know that I will plan on using games in my class when appropriate. Often times, math games can become frustrating if you don't understand the methods or theorems that are behind it. I will be sure that when creating a game, to keep in mind the current level of the students as well as making it to reflect on their past experiences with math. I also think I will only implement the games on special days. If we only play games in my class, what kind of structure will there be? Stressing the importance of when playing a game is appropriate and when working hard is appropriate will also be apart of my lesson. Games are still very important to kids. Adding a competitive element or a goal to an activity really brings out the strengths of some children while exposing everyone to social skills and learning in a safe environment.
Personally, I disliked games and most types of group work. My biggest problem when working with a team or group is that not everyone in the group cares the way that some people do. Especially when the groups outcome isn't what you could have accomplished had you done the entire project alone, but you didn't say anything during the time because you didn't want your group member to take your comment personally and you don't want to be the "leader" and control every persons input.... I just don't get any satisfaction and rarely learn more when put in these situations.... but that's just me. Now that I choose my education, I want more of a lecture than any game could teach me. Maybe if I was forced to go to school, a game might motivate me to participate today, but tomorrow... good luck trying to get my attention. I'm truly only interested if the content really applies to my life.
Alton, I love your posts. They are so honest and real and often times what I am thinking. I agree, in college I hate group work. I am very interested in my content and force myself to do "A" work because I want to be here.
ReplyDeleteGroup work also doesn't reflect "real life". This excuse always seams to be the reason why were forced to do group work in our classes. Last time I check in the "real world" if you don't do your part you're fired and or replaced. However, in the "real world (school environment)" That individual brings down the entire group and walks away with an undeserved grade. Games are also only a good idea if the group members have the same homogeneous abilities.
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