Blog Post 13

My Created Blog post

What can we learn from Paul Andersen about teaching?
Watch the video: Paul Andersen: Classroom Game Design.

Photo by: Bozeman Daily Chronicle


From the video,Paul Andersen: Classroom Game Design, I learned about how Paul Andersen relates video games to the classroom. Andersen explains that there are techniques to pull from video games and that can tie into the process of learning in the classroom. He explains that video games are something fun that kids choose to do and he says that the classroom should be just as fun and engaging. Instead of just listening to a teacher lecture, he explains that kids benefit more from interaction and hands on learning. Next, Andersen discusses how it is okay to fail. I think that so many teachers and students try to do everything right the first time, but really it's okay to attempt something 100 times before you get it right. It's all about the learning process and working towards a goal. Next, Andersen says that "leveling" is important. Just like a video game, reaching new levels is important for our students. We want to teach in a way that allows our students to essentially "pass" these levels of our classrooms. I think this is a very interesting way to look at the way we teach. If we keep in mind these sort of "levels" it's a definite motivator for teachers and students. Andersen continues to say that he wanted to re-invent his classroom by applying the elements of a video game to his classroom.

Andersen mentions that he wanted to try something new when it comes to grading his students. Many teachers start out in the beginning of the school year by giving students a 100 average, and then the students either maintain that or fall below that grade. Andersen says that he invented the "experience points," where his students start out with 0 points and from there they can only build up points instead of lose points. I think this is an interesting teaching strategy that will motivate students to succeed and work hard.
Paul Andersen really had some interesting thoughts and ideas about his classroom. Even though he mainly focuses on Science, I think that his teaching techniques could be used for other subjects. His main goal is to make learning fun and enjoyable for students, and I think by relating the classroom to a video game is something engaging for students. Using certain methods from video games, such as leveling, is interesting to think about in the classroom. Another thing that stood out to me in Andersen's lecture is his explanation of the importance of reading. I totally agree with reading being a huge part of learning. Reading is something that students must do throughout their day in the classroom and also out of the classroom. Reading is something that will be done every single day.

Overall, listening to Paul Andersen share his thoughts and ideas was very engaging for me. Once he got started, I wanted to listen to what he had to say. The idea of incorporating elements of a video game to the classroom is one that will hold your attention!