6 Steps to Creating Game-Based Learning

A standard pattern is used in most games. Every game has a goal and steps to solve it. Although you cannot skip levels, you can skip some things (e.g. introduction and help) and start with the main activity. It is never mandatory to go through a game in a linear fashion.

Using game concepts in learning will engage and interest learners. Try presenting a subject as a problem or an activity to allow learners to solve the problem or participate in an activity.

Here are 6 steps to create a game-based solution:

1. Start with a story/scenario
• May be dialogue or just visuals
2. End the story with a problem and invite the learner to solve it
3. Guide the learner
• Explain the controls and how to play the game
• Instructions can be text or guided tutorial
4. Include incentives and rewards
• Feedback, rewards, and incentives motivate gamers
5. Increase the challenge gradually
6. Include trial and error
• Give learners another chance to succeed
• Allow learners to repeat steps

Summary of article from The Writers' Gateway blog.