About a fortnight back, twitter user @ktenkely tweeted the following challenge to developers of learning games:
“Dear educational game makers, an online multiple choice quiz is not a game, it is a worksheet. Please stop pretending it’s a game. Thank you.”
This is our old saw, and so we replied:
“Dear @ktenkely. We know, and in fact couldn’t agree more. And thank YOU.”
Our response prompted this individual, an edublogger at iLearn Technology, to check us out. Apparently we passed muster: "I am delighted to say, they make incredible educational games that in no way resemble a worksheet! Bravo!"
iLearn's initial article explored Landform Detectives. Not only did it have some super flattering things to say about the game ("This really is an incredible way to learn about the Earth sciences. There is just no way that a static text-book can compare to the rich game and media experience that Landform Detectives offers."), the author also had some savvy ideas on ways to integrate the game into the classroom.
iLearn went on to recommend "super awesome learning game" Branches of Power in another article, giving a small shoutout to the teaching tools offered alongside each game on iCivics.org.
The third and final article featured Eco Defenders, again including suggestions on how educators could best utilize the game.
We really appreciate the multi-plug, especially coming from someone who so closely shares our vision for games in learning!
