Are You Using Gaming for Learning?

The key for any organization developing a gamification learning strategy is to establish when, how and what to use in its gaming initiatives. Xerox uses a framework around people, process, content, technology and measurement. For people, the goal is to learn more about different gamer and learner profiles. For process, the goal is to look at how game mechanics support the overall learning experience. For content, the goal is to look at the appropriate game mechanics that support content and learning objectives. For technology, the requirements, if any, are important: knowing how to support the learning game from spreadsheets, calculators to track points for classroom game-to-game mechanics, and supports for online learning and robust virtual world learning for simulations — all are evaluated.

A game is only worthwhile if it helps to achieve a learning project’s objectives, either by increasing retention, engagement, effectiveness or some other performance indicator.

Caroline Avey is the director of innovative learning for Xerox Learning Services, a professional learning services and outsourcing provider. She can be reached at editor@CLOmedia.com.