Through quest-based learning, you can transform literacy instruction into a game with creativity, collaboration, and play, while still meeting Next Generation Standards and ISTE Standards. Learn how to organize an overarching mission in which assignments are like a sequence of game levels students need to successfully complete in order to “rank up” and complete all the required material. To differentiate learning, some students may take side quests, while others might fast-forward to the level-ending boss battles or solve mysteries that help unlock the legends, themes, and pertinent information. Participate in this hands-on workshop and learn how to build a quest. Multiple mini-games and missions will be provided as examples and models to help teachers personalize a mission-specific to their grade level and content. Educators will be provided with quest templates and a tool kit for quest-based learning.
Gaming is inquiry-driven learning. Gamification and quest-based learning promote problem-solving and collaboration and failure is an essential source of feedback and learning. Gamification is not a worksheet for points; it is a rich, engaging way to use facts and information as tools for learning and assessment. Effective games are customized to different learners and students are encouraged to take risks and seek alternative solutions. In classrooms today, it’s not only about learning content material. Students must experience and build the necessary skills to be creators, innovators, and problem-solvers in order to develop critical thinking and bolster literacy learning. Approaching learning as a quest or a mission can inspire adventure, collaboration, and results in a better learning experience and learning environment.
Let’s think of Mario, Princess Zelda, and Monopoly as mentor texts to help design interactive lessons that immerse students in meaningful learning experiences. Teachers can become game designers who build experiences that allow students to foster meaningful teamwork, take ownership of their learning, and persevere when faced with obstacles.
