Game-Based Learning
Game-Based Learning in Higher Education
Engage, Motivate, and Transform Your Teaching Strategy
What Is Game-Based Learning?
Game-Based Learning (GBL) uses game elements, such as challenges, competition, rewards, and storytelling, to create engaging, interactive learning experiences. Unlike gamification, which adds game mechanics to existing tasks, GBL integrates the game itself as the learning tool.
Why Use Game-Based Learning?
Boost Student Engagement
Foster Critical Thinking
Enhance Retention
Strengthen Collaboration
Easy Ways to Get Started
Use platforms like Kahoot!, Quizizz, or Classcraft
Design tabletop simulations or scenarios>
Incorporate digital escape rooms or scavenger hunts
Invite students to create mini-games
Examples of GBL
| Topic | GBL Idea |
| History | Role-playing simulations (e.g., Reacting to the Past) |
| STEM | Puzzle-solving or physics-based games |
| Health Sciences | Virtual patients or diagnostic simulations |
| Literature | Interactive storytelling or branching narratives |
| Business | Strategy games and market simulations |
Need Help?
Contact us to schedule a consultation at tlos.vt.edu/consultations.