With students now facing rigorous testing processes, it is useful for learners to establish a structured revision routine as this will prove infinitely valuable within their educational career. Not only will instilling a positive attitude to learning benefit students but it will prove advantageous to head teachers and other teaching staff. Engaged learners have the potential to constructively impact on the school in many ways; including improving performance and attendance, which in turn could positively affect exam grades, league tables and consequently enhance the school’s status.
To ensure this is achieved, schools have the responsibility to source new solutions for maximising the level of student engagement.
Here, Steve Fuller, an assistant head teacher from St. Wilfrid’s Church of England High School and Technology College, a school and sixth form college based in Blackburn, discusses the value games-based learning can provide. Steve also offers his top tips for schools considering introducing games into lessons, to ensure smooth implementation and thus maximising its benefits.
Computer Games, Schools and Young People, a report recently conducted by Futurelab, recently disclosed that the inclusion of games within education should be viewed positively and accepted as a valuable resource. As revealed, 35 per cent of teachers already utilise games-based learning, whilst 60 per cent of those surveyed are considering bringing this style of learning into the classroom. But whilst many teachers are open to this learning technique, there are those who may feel that games do not have a place within their classroom and that they are appropriate only for entertainment during free time.