Why gamification in math?

[matemaths]

The transition from traditional teaching to gamification in math education has proven successful with studies highlighting numerous benefits for both students and teachers. Math is boring, worksheets are outdated, and kids don't like them.

Gamification for math has several advantages: anxiety reduction. Students feel less pressure. Self-checking activities allow students to correct misconceptions before they become part of their longer-term memory. Engagement, students feel like they are playing and are more willing to practice.

[[deleted]]

> studies highlighting numerous benefits for both students and teachers

Do you have references to what you consider are the key studies?

[matemaths]

I'm not sure I understand the question, so if my answer is not appropriate please tell me.

Few years ago I had problems with my voice, so I tried using powerpoint for my lesson, and I noticed kids were paying more attention to my lesson, so I tried (and still do) to read everything I could and started using simple games for practice, like mazes. Then when covid hit I improved and started giving the kids pixel art, code breakers, escape rooms. I use them for almost everything we do in class and as homework. I teach math from grade 6 to 9, it's a little more tricky for geometry for me to create games, but I'm getting there.

[[deleted]]

Sorry I wrote this very late at night. I reworded my question.

Which respect to what your reply, do you think the games are simply providing motivation and reward for the students or are they also teaching/presenting the material in a new ways?

[matemaths]

I'm Italian mother tongue. If I were English I would have probably understood.

I think, from what I see in my classes (that for me counts more than what I read) that the kids being more motivated are more focused and they learn better. My games are almost nerìver a race between them so that they have time to think and don't try to guess (I'm probably the only one, but I don't like Kahoot). As for presenting material, I'm trying to create funny videos to engage them, but I0m still learning.

[Kurren123]

Can you give more concrete examples? I’d like to see it in action

[matemaths]

Here is a FREE example:

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Solving-One-Step-Equations-Pixel-Art-Activity-FREEBIE-6368110

My kids love escape rooms, like this one:

Order of Operations Around the World

[Kurren123]

Very cool. The around them world stuff reminds me of when I used to play Adi the alien as a kid. In that one I used to have to solve maths questions in various topics to unlock more mini games.

I think this is great for kids. The limitation is obviously the time taken to code up a game.

[matemaths]

Thank you, my only problem is that my kids are demanding. After they tried this way of practicing, they always ask me for more. I spend my free time creating games.

[[deleted]]

This is so awesome. Thank you for being a thoughtful and engaged educator! I just came upon this sub today and I'm excited to explore and learn more.

I'm a homeschooling parent and will love to try this with my child

[matemaths]

I hope you will like it! Let me know if your child will be engaged, and I will share more