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From a non-educational standpoint, games within classrooms may be seen as time wasting, noisy and a way to keep the class “busy” because the teacher “forgot” to plan a proper lesson. However, that’s not the case in the educational realm as playing games in classes have various beneficial aspect for both the teachers and students and it has become an integral part in lessons. One of the best aspect of games is that it not only for kindergarten students but for students of all ages including adults. There are many benefits behind games in classes, especially when there are incentives involved like participation grades or gifts. Below is a list of benefits that Barnes (2017) mentioned: Engages the students (Increases Motivation) – games within classes sets a relaxed environment which allows students to be motivated to try the activities even if they don’t consider themselves very good in class. Games encourages the students to be apart of the team as well as the class. “It eliminates the monotony of the day-to-day experience in the classroom”, Barnes (2017). It’s also a way to increase their interest in the subject area. Builds Community (Class Cooperation) – games forces cliques to breakup in classes and promotes cohesiveness among other classmates. They are forced to work together as a team against the teacher or other groups. Such activities allow students to take turn whilst building respect in group through communication. Reinforces learning – one of the main purposes of games is to reinforce the knowledge that was learnt. It is also used to clarify any information that was previously taught. Students tend to learn and remember contents when they are in the form of engaging activities such as games. Learning by self – Games encourages students to do self-learning so he or she can promptly understand the concept so he, she or the group can respond with the correct answer in a timely fashion. Enhances Teacher’s Experiences – games forces teachers to come out their comfort zone to transform the content taught in class into a fun, energetic activity to keep the students in tuned. Games used in classes doesn’t necessarily have to be complicated, or new to bring forth the educational points. Common games used in classes are Hangman, Pictionary, Taboo, Tongue Twister, Charades and Bingo. These games can be played among all age groups along with the teacher ensuring that the game is appropriate for the lesson. One disadvantage of games within classes is the noise. Some teachers are afraid when students make too much noise and might disturb surrounding class. This can easily be resolved, if the teacher sets rules from the beginning. There are rare cases whereas teachers may be required to change the names of some of these games as it may be seen culturally inappropriate in a specific country. For instance, hangman is a widely used games around the world, however, the name may deem inappropriate in Japan because of its suicidal rates. I have been asked such case and changed the name to Superman. It’s the same concept but different character and culturally appropriate. Reference Barnes, L. (2017, July 21). 5 Reasons to Play Games in the Classroom. Retrieved January 6, 2020, from https://milady.cengage.com/blog/5-reasons-play-games-classroom.
