Abstract:
In an era demanding adaptable, critical-thinking learners, educators must embrace innovative pedagogical approaches. This breakout session provides practical strategies for integrating gamification into secondary curricula to cultivate essential 21st-century skills. Participants will explore readily available EdTech platforms and design principles to create engaging, skill-building learning experiences.
Session Description:
This interactive workshop will equip educators with the tools and knowledge to transform their classrooms into dynamic learning environments. We will move beyond superficial gamification, focusing on designing experiences that foster critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and digital literacy.
Participants will:
- Explore Gamification Principles: Understand the core elements of effective gamification, including intrinsic motivation, feedback loops, and progress tracking.
- Discover EdTech Platforms: Gain hands-on experience with versatile platforms such as:
- Google Earth Voyager: Develop spatial reasoning and global awareness through interactive, location-based learning.
- Blooket: Implement engaging review and reinforcement activities with diverse game modes.
- Teachable Machine (Google): Introduce fundamental AI concepts through accessible, hands-on machine learning model creation.
- AI Dungeon: Foster creative writing and problem-solving through AI-driven narrative exploration.
- Virtual Reality (VR): Explore immersive learning environments for experiential skill development.
Design Skill-Building Activities: Collaborate to create gamified lessons aligned with specific learning objectives and 21st-century skill development.
Address Implementation Challenges: Discuss practical considerations for integrating gamification into existing curricula, including assessment, student motivation, and technology access.
Ethical Considerations: Discuss the ethical implications of using AI within the classroom.
This session emphasizes practical application, providing educators with concrete strategies and resources to implement gamification immediately. Participants will leave with a toolkit of digital resources and a deeper understanding of how to leverage gamification to create meaningful, engaging learning experiences that prepare students for the demands of the 21st century.
Target Audience:
Secondary educators across all disciplines, curriculum developers, and technology integration specialists.
Expected Outcomes - Participants will:
- Gain practical knowledge of gamification principles and EdTech tools.
- Develop strategies for integrating gamification into their teaching practices.
- Design gamified activities that promote 21st-century skill development.
- Understand the ethical implications of AI and gamification in education.
