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Games are a great way to present or review content in training. Not only are they fun and engaging, but they are also effective learning tools. Games can range from simple to complex, but simple games, if designed well, are just as engaging as anything complex.
Here are some things to keep in mind when adding games to your virtual or in-person courses:
Make it Content-Related
Don’t throw a game into your training program that is unrelated to the course content just for the sake of having a game. Ensure it has a clear learning purpose and that it explores the content.
Be Mindful of Timing
Keep in mind that games can take a lot of time, especially in a virtual course or for larger classes. Try to design games in a series of rounds so the instructor can reduce the number of rounds if time is tight.
Choose Between Teams or Individuals
Decide whether the game will be played in teams or individually. Suggest the instructor create teams ahead of time to ensure players are evenly divided as much as possible. Teams made in advance will also save time during the workshop and will help avoid a situation where someone is left out. If players are working individually, they can keep track of their own answers and scores. At the end of the game, they can find out how they did compared to their peers.
Aim to Save Face
Avoid situations where a learner can be put on the spot. Allow participants to answer on a volunteer basis. You can make a rule that no one can answer twice in a row to allow the less competitive learners a chance to answer.
Games are a great way to build engagement, but they aren’t always suitable for the content. Consider the content first. If adding some fun into your training is appropriate, then definitely consider games as an option.
For ideas on designing creative games for your training courses, sign up for our Maximizing Engagement in the Virtual Classroom workshop.
