Have you ever watched a child or teenager playing a videogame they really liked? Do you
wonder what it is about this game that has them so completely engrossed? Part of the
answer is that games are motivating, rewarding, engaging, and challenging, all at the same
time. The kids will probably just tell you they’re fun. But when you think about it, fun and
engagement are synonymous, and engagement is something we all want for our learners.
Games also show us that challenge sells – when was the last time you heard that a game
was popular because it was easy? Does a game loose its appeal once it has been won?
Rarely. The game looses its appeal when players have learned all they can from it. And
what do players get as their reward? They get to go buy another game. Want to tap into
that eagerness in your classroom?
