Training Industry Quarterly - Fall 2009 - (Page 21)

[TACTICS] Designing Learning Games to Meet BUSINESS GOALS B Y D A V E P I L T Z Research on learning proves it is not enough to listen to experts, have experience or use hands-on learning. We need both “heads-on” and “hands-on” learning, something team-based learning board games accomplish. Albert Einstein said, “Games are the most elevated form of investigation.” The discussions that happen playing learning games help participants think through situations, take risks, and test ideas—which leads to learning. John Kenworthy and Annie Wong discovered in their research that games and simulations create environments in which : Behavior changes more readily. Engagement and enjoyment is high. Practiced skills are transferred. as providing interaction during a program; illustrating, reviewing or introducing content; addressing multiple learning styles; creating fun, etc. Those are all fine, but they tend to miss one essential point— providing an experience in which everyone gains insight into themselves or the topic in a way that isn’t expected. Gaining insight is similar to the “a-ha” moment all trainers dream their participants experience at every program. However, gaining insight is more subtle. It can happen during a discussion when participants thought they knew something, but realized they didn’t or during an activity when a different perspective is presented Gaining Insight Trainers use learning games to make someone think. Gaining for a multitude of reasons, such insight is more than just learning a Most trainers are taught to use learning games, but not necessarily taught to create them. This article examines a simple model for creating your very own learning games! There are many models and theories used, but realizing the importance of balancing simplicity with complexity, novelty with tested game elements and creating fun while meeting business goals is essential. Follow these steps every time you design any type of learning game, from a one-minute game to a full-day simulation. They are essential in designing learning games to meet business goals. Training Industry Quarterly, Fall 2009 / A Training Industry, Inc. ezine / www.trainingindustry.com/TIQ http://www.trainingindustry.com/TIQ

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Training Industry Quarterly - Fall 2009

Training Industry Quarterly - Fall 2009
GeoLearning
From Where I Sit
Contents
Ad Index
Partnering for Performance Conference
At the Editor’s Desk
Raptivity
Winning Organizations Through People
The Training Associates
Learning Technologies
TrainingIndustry.com
Performance & Productivity
Adobe
The Power of User-Generated Learning Content
Training Industry Quarterly
Upside Learning
Designing Learning Games to Meet Business Goals
General Physics Corporation
Creating Effective Learning Measurement Dashboards
University Alliance
Managing Innovation in Corporate Training
Coldwell Banker: Managing Opportunity & Change
Organizational Enablers of Good Measurement
Closing Arguments
Learning Content Network

Training Industry Quarterly - Fall 2009