Top 5 Games for Students to Become Better Learners

The idea of playing video games has become one of the biggest sources of controversy in the educational world. Despite the proven benefits of gamification and game-based learning, many believe that games are a distraction instead of a learning aid. Even so, no one can dispute that educational video games and proper use of elements of gaming can truly benefit the learning processes. With the right guidance and methods that turn games into an entertaining, yet educational tool – students can benefit greatly from playing.

Benefits from Playing Video Games for Students

Students nowadays are under constant pressure due to the strenuous mental workout. They have many obligations, often more than their schedule can support. Therefore, it is hard to believe that any student would reject the opportunity to insert video games in education.

But, why should we insert gaming into the educational world?

Playing video games has proven to have many benefits for students, and Im not only speaking of education games. Various strategy games have been proven to improve student behavior, hand and eye coordination, as well as the problem-solving skills of those who play.

There are basically series of studies that prove that the right games in a controlled environment contribute to high level cognitive flexibility. Students who play games have shown a tremendous increase in their perception abilities.

Top 5 Games for Students Today

All the benefits surrounding the idea of playing video games bring us to one obvious course of action – implementing games in the learning process. To do this the right way, I’m presenting you with the best pc learning games for students available today.

1. Matific

Matific is an extraordinary application that helps students learn maths by playing games. This takes solving math equations and problems to an entirely different, more entertaining level. It’s a fresh way to get students more engaged in learning maths through playing games.

Thanks to interactive mini-games imbedded in so-called episodes, Matific takes a successful approach to teach maths to students. The app can be used on personal computers, tablets, and even smartphones, allowing easy access whenever the student needs it.

Think of Matific as a source of math assistance, same as a tutor is when a student needs to master tough materials. When as a student, you face issues with a written assignment, you can do one of two things – not submit it or check essay writing services to ask them for help. The same applies to Matific. Students use this game to get help with practicing math or resolving math problems.

2. Minecraft Edu

Minecraft is a widely popular, very interesting game to play. In it, you need to mine and craft various kinds of 3D blocks. Right now, there’s an educational version of the popular game, called Minecraft Edu. This game has become really popular among students, especially since it covers many areas of different subjects.

3. ClassCraft

Classcraft is a game that includes role-playing. The goal is to increase engagement and collaboration in a learning environment, such as a classroom. Basically, ClassCraft helps educators and students in turning the learning endeavours into an adventure.

ClassCraft features some great visuals and dynamic setup. It is used by both young and older students. Also, it can be used on varied platforms and devices.

4. Kahoot

Kahoot is a very simple application that every student can use to play, create, and share learning games for different subjects. It contains tools for students of all ages and is absolutely free of charge. Educators use it to personalize games to suit the needs of their students. Students use it to master the material taught at class, get some hands-on practice, and prepare for exams. Thanks to the easy adaptation of the games offered on the platform, this is one of the best educational tools of today.

5. Scratch

Would you like to learn how to code? If the answer is yes, this game is an amazing tool to get started. Scratch has links with external robotic tools and can be integrated into any curriculum area. You can use it to program games, animations and stories. The game is known to boost the creativity, help children build their critical thinking, and as a tool that boost collaboration.

Conclusion

Introducing games in education is no longer a novelty. It is a highly discussed topic, one that has brought on many controversies between experts. The proper use of games, as well as the proper choice of games used in education is known to have amazing benefits to those who play them. That being said, you should choose between these five and make a habit of introducing some fun into your learning process.

Author’s Bio

Emma Rundle is an educational game developer. She creates opportunities for learning and fun in a single tool – an educational game. Her focus is on students in the youngest year range, but she has also created some adult learning games.