Serious Games
What Are Games?
The conceptual framework known as “game concept” is used to create social settings involving competing players. Game theory is the science of strategy, or at least the best way for independent, rival players to make decisions in a strategic environment.
The game concept has been used in various fields, such as economics, business, politics, education, and many others. However, we will focus on the idea of games for educational purposes.
Understanding the fundamental concept of a game is essential for educators to effectively integrate game-based learning into their teaching methodologies.
A game is an interactive, rule-based activity that involves players engaging in decision-making to achieve a specific objective or goal. Games typically consist of elements such as rules, players, goals, and feedback mechanisms, creating an environment of competition or cooperation.
What Are Serious Games?
Video games that have a problem-solving focus, as opposed to enjoyment, are referred to as serious games. They make use of the same kinds of material as recreational video games. On the other hand, serious games can support the development of complicated competencies and assist students in obtaining a solid understanding of a certain subject and help them learn.
A new educational tool that is particularly interesting for simulation is the serious game. They are a means of conceptualizing a simulation activity by highlighting the instructional benefit of play, even if they are not a simulation modality in and of themselves. Both procedural and immersive simulation can benefit from using serious games.
Differentiation Between Traditional Games and Serious Games
Recognizing the distinctions between traditional games and serious games helps educators grasp the unique educational values that serious games bring to the learning environment.
Traditional games are primarily designed for entertainment, while serious games are specifically crafted for educational or professional development purposes. Serious games leverage the engaging elements of video games to foster problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and knowledge retention. These games transcend rote learning by immersing students in real-world scenarios, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts.
Historical background of serious games
Exploring the historical evolution of serious games provides educators with insights into their origins, development, and diverse applications across various educational and professional settings.
Serious games have roots in military training simulations dating back to the mid-20th century, evolving into broader educational applications. The advent of digital technology and video games in the late 20th century paved the way for the integration of serious games into mainstream education. Serious games have been employed in fields such as healthcare, business, government, and beyond, showcasing their versatility and impact. Noteworthy examples include the emergence of educational software and the development of specific serious games that achieved widespread recognition.
Video games that have a problem-solving focus, as opposed to enjoyment, are referred to as serious games. They make use of the same kinds of material as recreational video games. On the other hand, serious games can support the development of complicated competencies and assist students in obtaining a solid understanding of a certain subject and help them learn.
A new educational tool that is particularly interesting for simulation is the serious game. They are a means of conceptualizing a simulation activity by highlighting the instructional benefit of play, even if they are not a simulation modality in and of themselves. Both procedural and immersive simulation can benefit from using serious games.
