Gaming

Gamestar Mechanic

Game Mechanic seems like a good website for teachers to use in the classroom.  From what I observed it seems like the teachers is using it as a good way for students to use their analytical and critical thinking skills.  I enjoyed the the STEM video game challenge.  I think it is a great way to help students get involved and interested in STEM.  I started playing one of the game quest and I saw myself spending a lot of time on the game.   I actually enjoyed it and I like that it was very educational and required you to really use your critical thinking skills.   

Philosophy of Gaming

Not until now did I really think about a philosophy of gaming in the classroom setting.  

But the more I think about it the more I  feel gaming can be an asset in the classroom.  Many people don't realize it but gaming teaches children a lot of different skills depending on the game they are playing.  Games can be valuable with helping children learn critical thinking and analytical skills.  Games can teach children how to be creative and think outside the box.  A lot of games offer what-if scenarios whereas the game changes depending on your move.  That means this type of gaming will lead children to start thinking on a broader spectrum.  They will strategize their next move which in many ways they are creating their own story.  Therefore, I believe gaming can be a benefit in the classroom especially the ELA classroom.  Using games will lead children to think but not just think but become critical thinkers and use higher order thinking skills.   Games such strategy games and word games can be an asset and should used more often in the ELA classroom. 

Game Scenario
Click on the picture below 

Edmodo

I am not new to Edmodo.  I find Edmodo to very good resource not just for students but for teachers. Edmodo can be valuable in the ELA classroom because it promotes literacy and collaboration amongst students and teachers.  Students can blog, share, and communicate in a safe secure environment while enhance their learning.  It is a great resource and can be a powerful tool if used correctly in the classroom.