Post 1:

Gamification: the concept of applying game-design thinking to non-game applications to make them more fun and engaging.

Being that one of the major hurdles in education is keeping the student engaged and interested, activities that make the learning process fun for the student serve to alleviate this issue. Using games as a teaching tool decreases classroom management issues by ensuring high morale and class participation.

Phantasy Quest (3 times)

 

http://www.spacepretzel.com/phantasy/games/phantasy_quest.html

Language-Learning Objectives:

1. Word and phrase familiarization through individual reading and teacher directed reading using the game Phantasy Quest.
2. Command prompted instruction in target language regarding computer interface.

The students would be actively involved in the language acquisition process through their manipulation of the game, following the teacher's commands and reading aloud the words and phrases appearing in the game.

The teacher's role is that of behavior monitor and instructor regarding computer interface. The teacher 'plays' the game at the same time as the students in order to lead the students in the uttering of words and phrases. Finally, the teacher is present to trouble-shoot any technological issues inherent in computer/internet driven activities.

To avoid confusion on the student's part and to expedite the learning process while maintaining more personal control over learning I would not use a walk through for the game.

Referencing memorable images from the game would be useful to prep future classes by refreshing the student's knowledge.

Assessment of knowledge acquired through this method could be measured by turning off the computers and having the class repeat the phrases learned without the aid of the images. The teacher can ask for volunteers or call on individual students. In order to access computer-interface acquisition the teacher could allow the students the opportunity to access the game on their own without instruction while still being available to help students still having trouble.

Post 2:

Axis and Allies: 1914

 

(Played several times)

Language-Learning Objectives:

1. Word and phrase acquisition through instruction and game-play.
2. Cultural, geographic and historical discussion and vocabulary familiarization in target language.

Assessment may be carried out by questioning the student in the target language regarding material learned or touched upon during game play. Questions requiring simple, one word responses to start leading towards more complex questions and responses.