VIRTUAL EVENT: Children's learning in digital games - the theory and the practice

The use of learning games in schools is increasingly widespread, with research demonstrating their potential to promote more independent learning, foster children’s motivation and benefit learning outcomes. 

In this webinar we introduce empirical work backing each of these claims. We invite teachers who were using the Navigo literacy game in the primary classroom to share their views and experiences. 

Reflecting on teacher experiences with using Navigo we will debate the following key questions around the use of games in education:

• What is the role of the technology vs the teacher?
• How do learning games sustain children's motivation and does this apply for all children?
• In what ways can games foster learning? How do we evidence this?

Navigo is a personalised literacy game designed for primary children funded by Horizon 2020 EU funding. During the past 2 years it has been used by over 300 pupils in a range of primary schools in England. Before using it, teachers were given training and resources, but were free to choose how best to integrate the game within their teaching and everyday practice. 

Links

• Tweet with #iReadGames
• App co-designed by IOE researchers recognised by the Department for Education
• UCL Knowledge Lab
• Department of Culture, Communication and Media

Image: Courtesy of Laura Benton (iRead project)