A Better Alternative to Traditional Learning: Game-Based Training

How is game-based training better?

There are four main areas in which game-based learning has the advantage over traditional methods.

• Interactivity. Gamification and game-based learning allow coworkers to not only interact with the content but, also with each other. Applying game elements or using a game to teach a concept gives the learners the chance to be actively involved in their learning. This increases their rate of retention and comprehension. The same is true of the interaction with peers. Bouncing ideas off of each other encourages a deeper understanding of the material and builds teamwork among the participants. There is very little interaction involved in a traditional learning scenario.
• Challenge. When learners are faced with a reasonable challenge, a level of engagement is added to the experience. When game aspects are included in the mix, the element of fun also comes into play. An engaged learner is much more likely to recall information and apply it to real-life situations. Successfully completing a challenging activity also adds to the confidence of the learner. Challenges of this sort are rare, if not nonexistent, in a traditional training setting.
• Feedback. Game-based training is based on continual feedback. As the game or activity progresses, the learner is constantly finding out if they are on the right track or not. For example, this could come in the form of moving on to higher levels or having to repeat a level. In a simulation-type training experience, the feedback allows the learner to change course when they see that a decision wasn’t the best. They are free to try different solutions in a risk-free way. The feedback an employee receives from a traditional learning environment is normally in the form or right or wrong answers, with no remediation or discussion.
• Competition. Gamification allows for learners to engage in healthy competition with their coworkers. The use of leaderboards shows everyone where they rank. For many, this is a motivating factor. There are people who don’t thrive on competition against others the way some do. The use of individual goals may work better for them, as they are still benefiting from the element of competition, but they are competing against themselves.

Should tradition be thrown out?

The answer is no! There are elements of traditional learning that are worth keeping. A combination of old and new is the best way to reach the widest range of learners and training depends upon the type of content and objectives that need to be met.

Designing Digitally, Inc. can help your organization to determine the most effective, customized, game-based training to ensure the training you deliver results in greater employee engagement, higher productivity, and increased profitability. Contact us today!