Game software

Definition of game software

Purpose of game software

Characteristics of game software

Criteria for good game software

Benefits of game software

Limitations of game software

Strategies for integrating game software

Guidelines for using game software

Examples of game software

Definition of game software

• Software designed to increase motivation by adding game rules and/or competition activities.

• Sometimes form part of drill-and-practice, tutorial and simulation software.

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Purpose of game software

• The elements of games set mental and emotional expectations.

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Characteristics of game software

• Game rules apply.• Elements of competition are implemented.• Amusing and entertaining formats.

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Criteria for good game software

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• Appealing formats and activities: Elements of adventure and uncertainty are included.

• Physical dexterity is reasonable: Make sure that learners are motivated rather than frustrated by activities.

• Minimum violence/aggression: Games that call for violence or combat should be avoided.

Benefits of game software

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• More interesting than traditional forms of instruction.• Leads to better retention over time than other types of instructional software.• Enable learners to focus on a topic.

Limitations of game software

• Learning versus fun: Some critics believe that winning the game becomes a learner’s primary focus and that the educational purpose is lost.

• Confusion of game rules and real-life rules: Learners can get confused about which part of the activity is game and which part is the skill.

• Inefficient learning: Learners find educational games exciting and stimulating but it is sometimes difficult to pinpoint the educational value.

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Strategies for integrating game software

• In place of worksheets and exercises: Help learners to acquire automatic recall of prerequisite skills.

• To teach cooperative group working skills: A game’s competitive qualities can present opportunities for competition amongst groups.

• As a reward: Playing an educational game can be a reward for good work.

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Guidelines for using game software

• Use sparingly: Some learners may be unmotivated or even threatened by competition.

• Involve all students: Girls and boys should participate and all learners must have a meaningful role.

• Emphasize the content-area skills: Make sure that the learners know the relationship between game rules and content-area rules.

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Examples of game software

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Meaning of dexterity

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• Skill or adroitness in using the hands or body; agility.

• Mental adroitness or skill; cleverness.

• Expert or nimble in the use of the hands or body.

• Cleverly skilful, resourceful, or ingenious: an adroit debater.

Dexterity Adroit