Link: http://blog.teslontario.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/kahoot-logo-2.jp

This week, we will discuss game-based learning and the impacts motivation has on students, and in relation to Kahoot. For those of you who may not know, game based learning is a type of game play, which has defined learning outcomes. More generally, game based learning is designed to create a balance between playing and having fun and the ability to retain subject matter/ relevant information, which can be implicated into the real world, depending on the situation. The ultimate goal of game-based learning is to provide a fun environment where students can work towards a goal. Here is a quick two-minute video about what game-based learning is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uj_8C2L9bXI. Consecutively, by using a game-based learning theory it is a way of motivating the students to learn. Students are more likely to participate in any type of game rather than the old-fashioned way of learning (the teacher talks at the students). Motivation has several effects on student’s behavior but most importantly, their learning. Motivation leads to increased effort and energy and has a direct impact on how an individual learns. There are two types of motivation, extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic is determined by the individual’s outside surrounding and specific tasks. Intrinsic motivation can be found within the individual since the task can be viewed as valuable. Therefore, when applying the affect that motivation has on the learning process, it is clear that people learn better based on the perceived value of the task, subject matter, personal goals, financial incentives and wide array of different factors. (For further explanation about how Motivation Affects Learning, please use this link: https://theinspiredclassroom.com/2013/07/how-motivation-affects-learning/). In conclusion, when relating these concepts to Kahoot, we recognize that Kahoot is considered to be a game-based learning platform, therefore this is one example of what may motivate a student to learn. Here are some images of Kahoot being used in the classrooms (a variety of different classrooms), as you can see, the students look engaged, and essentially motivated to be learning through this game-based platform. In the first image, it seems that the students appear to be young (elementary aged students) and they are celebrating their joy for learning and more importantly, because most of them got the answer correct. In the second image, it appears that the students are a bit older, because they are using their own technology devices, and it seems that some peer teaching is taking place.

Link: https://www.scoop.it/topic/technologie-de-l-education/?&tag=kahoot

Partner: Brittany Johnson