Educational games can improve knowledge of specific subjects like language or math, but can also incorporate learning materials into games like flashcards or video games. Technology can guide players through information, while traditional games like Karuta can also be educational.
There are many different types of educational games, but some are more explicitly focused on education than others. While games meant to improve general thinking skills are sometimes considered educational games, most people limit this category to games that improve knowledge of a specific subject such as language or math. This means that while games like chess are known to improve logical skills, reasoning, and other traits valued in education, these games are not considered educational. Various types of activities can incorporate learning materials to form games, but flashcard-based games and video games are probably the most common.
Many types of educational games take advantage of computers and technology to guide players through information. Games involving fact, analysis, or basic skill can be built into the game in a variety of ways, but these are typically hidden behind an overarching storyline. This type of educational game is often very effective but requires technology that is not available to all people.
Basic games involving flashcards can be used as educational games in a number of ways. Matching games are popular, as are those that involve answering questions. These games are typically differentiated from purely educational activities by prizes or some concept of winning. Other games, such as bingo or baseball, can be modified to include educational elements even in a school setting.
Educational games can be as simple or complex as the designer wishes, but some types of games are more effective than others at hiding educational content. Withholding educational content isn’t strictly necessary, but it often helps encourage children to compulsively play this type of game, as a child may be playing purely recreational games. For example, typing games where the keyboard is the controller are nearly perfect at integrating fun with learning, as these games teach a skill. Flashcard games, on the other hand, are often less hidden and therefore less popular.
Reading activities are popular as educational games, and with some computer systems books can actively incorporate side games that involve additional learning. Spelling, phonics, and other reading basics can be incorporated into popular books to increase the degree of interaction between the user and the book, creating something like a game. To maintain the reader’s interest, some parts of the book may also be animated or resemble more conventional games.
Some traditional games can also be considered educational games. For example, the Japanese game Karuta involves knowing a large number of Japanese poems. Games that require knowledge to play, such as trivia games, can often be considered educational if a player observes long enough or has been given time to prepare beforehand, but the teaching aspect through play is present. in many other educational games it is lost.
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