Today we began to explore how we can use video games in the classroom in order to help aid learning in the classroom. After playing Mario Kart we used the characters as inspiration in how we could get a child to create their own character through a literacy lesson. We also began to plan other lessons with included, maths, geography, problem solving and health and well being. It must be commented that children of this generation are seen as digital natives as they grow up being taught how to use basic technology, and games such as Minecraft are hugely influential in aiding this process. These games allow for children to use their imaginations and can be used to create anything that they can put their minds to, as it is an infinite world for them to explore and build on. It can also be used alongside another lesson as you can get the children to write and create a story in a literacy lesson, then create the characters, settings and backgrounds in the game and show off their ideas. It would be best to keep them to a smaller group of individuals as this would allow for you to be able to control the activity and prevent their minds from wandering off and doing their own thing. It is also easily accessible and multiple worlds can be created, should more than one class actually need to use it. It also allows them to be able to explore the software they are using effectively and be able to manipulate classroom situations to their benefit. Also unlike most games consoles, the wii can be used as a way of getting children to be more active when playing video games, as games like wii fit and wii sports get children to move around as they play. It also can be used for other educational games such as African safari (teaches science and geography) and brain training (to teach areas such as maths and English).
