Gamification And Interactive Learning

As technology permeates all aspects of our lives, education is no exception. Today's tech-savvy kids expect a more interactive and interesting learning environment, and gamification meets that demand. Technologies like AI, Machine Learning, Big Data and the Internet of Things (iot) have facilitated the adoption of gamification in the education sector. Moreover, the widespread availability of the internet and smartphones has made it easier for students and kids across india to access hands-on learning experiences.

Gamification enhances learning

As per a report, gamification in education market size is projected to reach usd 6550.3 million by 2028, growing at a cagr of 31.29 per cent from 2021 to 2028 and has emerged as a powerful tool in early childhood education, revolutionising the traditional learning approach and creating engaging and interactive experiences for young learners. 

Research into early childhood education highlights the importance of engaged, active, and sensory-based learning. Play-based or game-based learning provides an ideal platform for children to develop their physical, social, intellectual, emotional, and creative abilities. According to a recent study, students exposed to challenge-based gamification in their education experienced an impressive 89.5 per cent improvement in performance compared to students who were solely taught through lectures and notes. By gamifying learning, educators can harness the power of play and involve young students in interactive and creative learning activities.

A child's brain is highly active before the age of five, creating hundreds of new neural connections every second. These connections support the development of sensory, motor, and cognitive skills, shaping the child's responses and laying the foundation for future learning. Between the ages of 3 and 5, the brain grows to 90 per cent of its adult size, making it a critical period for the development of rational and creative thinking, problem-solving abilities, language acquisition, behavioural patterns, motor skills, and emotional well-being. It’s interesting to note that the impact of gamification on early childhood learning is profound, considering the rapid brain development and learning potential during this crucial period.

Advantages to consider

There are several compelling benefits of gamification in early childhood education. First and foremost, it makes learning more engaging and interactive, motivating students to stay focused and interested in their academics. This increased involvement leads to a deeper comprehension of the subject matter and better retention of knowledge. Gamification also promotes competition and teamwork as students collaborate to achieve goals, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared achievement.

Another significant advantage of gamification is prompt feedback and progress tracking. Students receive real-time feedback on their performance, allowing them to identify areas that need improvement and recognize their strengths and limitations. This feedback keeps students motivated and focused, as they can see their progress and the rewards that await them.

Gamification also accommodates various learning modalities, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of students. While some students may benefit more from interactive exercises and simulations, others may prefer more traditional teaching methods like lectures and reading. Gamification provides a way to integrate different learning modalities, ensuring a personalized and inclusive learning experience.

Boosting inclusivity, accessibility & skills

Gamification has the potential to increase accessibility and inclusivity in education. By incorporating technology into the learning process, gamification can reach a wider audience, including those who lack access to high-quality education. Regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, students can receive a top-notch education through gamified learning.

Importantly, gamification promotes 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, which are essential for success in today's rapidly evolving job market, by providing a practical context for students to develop and apply these skills.

Looking ahead, gamification will continue to play a pivotal role in early childhood education. Educators need to adopt a sophisticated and thoughtful approach, ensuring that gamification and educational technology (edtech) complement each other effectively. It is important to remember that education aims to foster a lifelong love of learning, rather than simply memorizing facts. By striking a balance between gaming elements and educational content, gamification can provide an unforgettable learning experience that nurtures critical and creative thinking. The strategic goal of our educational system should be to inspire young children to think creatively, empower them to make rational decisions, and derive the ultimate joy of problem-solving. Gamification holds the key to achieving these objectives and unlocking the full potential of early childhood learners.

Prerna Jhunjhunwala

Guest Author Prerna Jhunjhunwala is the Founder of Creative Galileo that has recently launched Little Singham: kids Early learning app. The app weaves together the best of education and entertainment to create personalised, integrated learning experiences for young minds. The app aims to accelerate a child's development of early literacy through narrative videos, gamification and personalised learning journeys. Based out of Singapore, Prerna is committed to delivering innovative pedagogy and has a vision to modernize and upscale the education imparted to children in their budding or formative years. She is a firm believer that a child's future not only depends on the grades in various subjects but also on their impeccable social, cognitive and leadership skills. She is also the founder of Little Paddington, a chain of highly acclaimed schools in Singapore established in 2015. Prerna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Science from The Stern School of Business, New York University and has nearly a decade’s experience in the field of education.