Games Based Learning
Today, young people consume information in a very different way to the past and we are delighted that Bristol CLCs' Games Based Learning project has had success in motivating students to learn. We are using Nintendo DSi consoles with commercial games to engage students in a different and exciting way in a range of curriculum areas.
English - one of these games (Hotel Dusk) is a detective story that assists the creative writing process for upper KS3 students. The game encourages group reading and collaborative learning. The potential for creative writing based on role-play and critical thinking skills are endless.
Maths - our numeracy project utilises Brain Training software. This has been so successful that we are encouraging KS4 students to mentor KS3 students who would benefit from the challenge of improving their basic number skills.
Audience
To date we have worked with 3 schools, St. Bede's, Bristol Metropolitan Academy and Cotham in using GBL in the curriculum and it has been greeted enthusiastically by teachers and students alike. We are currently working with the English department at Brislington Enterprise College who are also scheduled to run the programme this year.
Aims and Objectives
Our aim is to encourage learning by using exciting games that offer students an opportunity to develop transferable skills whilst working collaboratively in a completely unique environment. From our evaluation surveys and teacher interviews we have been impressed by the success of the project.
Future plans include extending opportunities for staff training through CPD sessions as advertised in the Bristol City Council programme. LA/CLC consultancy support will be offered during the implementation of the project in order to achieve the maximum impact.
We will be piloting the Games Based Learning project for primary schools in the near future whilst also focussing on the potential of GBL as a cross curricular activity. We welcome suggestions from teachers who would be interested in joining this attractive and innovative approach to teaching and learning. Please contact: the.i@bristol.gov.uk.
