Digital Games and Learning ─ Research and Theory

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of digital games to enhance teaching and learning at all educational levels, from early years through to lifelong learning, in both formal and informal settings. A critical limitation for the average teacher or lecturer, however, is how to access appropriate games that meet their specific pedagogic needs. Development of bespoke games requires specialist knowledge and is prohibitively time-consuming, so the only practical option for most teachers is to use existing games. Commercial off-the-shelf games are expensive and difficult to integrate into a curriculum, and there are a limited number of appropriate 'serious' games, specifically designed for learning.

Game Theory for Learning & Teaching addresses these issues by working on the assumption that, while integration of games may be impractical in many settings, there is much that educators can learn from the theory of games in terms of the elements that make them motivating, engaging, fun and good for learning. The book draws on a range of theoretical perspectives of digital games, including human-computer interaction, game design, theories of engagement, and learning theories, to present a range of practical ways in which learning and teaching can be enhanced. It assumes no previous knowledge of games or technology by the reader, and – as well as drawing on relevant academic literature – uses cases and examples throughout, providing simple, practical techniques that readers can implement immediately in order to enhance their practice.

Nicola Whitton works as a Senior Research Fellow at Manchester Metropolitan University. She holds a doctorate in the use of educational games for learning and her research focuses on the relationship between games, play and learning. More broadly, her research interests encompass learning and teaching innovation and the use of rich media and technology for learning.