At the recent #ATD24 conference, attendees were treated to a captivating session on incorporating elements from famous games into learning experiences. The session, led by Karl Kapp, offered insights into leveraging game mechanics to create more engaging and effective training programs. Let’s explore key takeaways from the session and how to apply them to your learning designs.
Tabletop Simulations
During the presentation, Karl Kapp underscored the historical significance of tabletop simulations or sand tables. He pointed out that tabletop simulations have been used throughout history to recreate diverse scenarios and challenges, offering learners a hands-on approach to learning. This historical perspective emphasizes their effectiveness in providing learners with practical and realistic learning environments to hone their skills and knowledge.
Storytelling
One of the standout elements discussed was the power of storytelling in learning. Like in famous games, where compelling narratives drive player engagement, incorporating stories into your training programs can captivate learners’ attention and enhance their retention of key concepts. Stories create emotional connections and make learning more relatable and memorable.
Kapp demonstrated this element by weaving a mystery story around his presentation. We were on a quest to find a missing professor.
Autonomy and Choice
Another key aspect highlighted was the importance of autonomy and choice. Just as game players are often free to explore and make decisions, giving learners autonomy over their learning paths can increase motivation and engagement. By providing choices and opportunities for exploration, you empower learners to take ownership of their learning journey.
Kapp used an interactive map to control the flow of the presentation. Through audience participation, we explored different parts of the map. Each area of the map provided another clue to the puzzle. Clues were earned by answering questions.
He emphasized creating curiosity. Adults learn best when they do not know something.
Scenario-Based Learning
Scenario-based learning emerged as a valuable technique, which was discussed during the session. Similar to how games present players with various scenarios and challenges to overcome, incorporating scenarios into training programs can simulate real-world experiences and facilitate active learning. Learners can apply their knowledge and skills in practical situations, enhancing their problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Failure
Kapp emphasized the importance of failure during the presentation. He highlighted how games accommodate failure as a natural part of the learning process, fostering an environment where learners can experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them. He pointed out that allowing failure in learning experiences encourages learners to take risks, explore different strategies, and develop resilience. He underscored that punishing failure inhibits learning, whereas embracing it as a valuable learning opportunity promotes growth and development.
Reflection and Feedback
Reflection and feedback play crucial roles in both games and learning experiences. Just like players reflect on their gameplay and receive feedback on their performance, learners benefit from opportunities to reflect on their learning progress and receive constructive feedback. Incorporating reflection activities and providing timely feedback can deepen understanding and promote continuous improvement.
Competition and Gamification
The session also emphasized the effectiveness of competition and gamification in driving engagement. Just as games often incorporate elements of competition to motivate players, integrating gamified elements like leaderboards, badges, and rewards into learning programs can incentivize participation and foster healthy competition among learners. Gamification adds an element of fun and excitement to learning, making it more enjoyable and motivating.
Games Highlighted
Kapp highlighted several games for specific gaming elements.
- Oregon Trail. The game can be replayed because of its probability tables and simple game loop engine.
- Zelda. It is an open-world game that allows a lot of exploration.
- Zork. An adventure game that focuses on storytelling.
- MIT Beer Game. It is a reveal game that results in a one-time play.
Conclusion
Incorporating elements from famous games into learning experiences can significantly enhance engagement, retention, and overall effectiveness. You can create more immersive and impactful training programs that resonate with learners by leveraging storytelling, autonomy, scenario-based learning, reflection, competition, and gamification. As you design your next learning experience, consider stealing a page from the playbook of famous games and watch your engagement levels soar.
Photo by Pixabay and photo by Matheus Bertelli
