Let the Games Begin…

Today, I divided my class into teams and had them start their initial discussions about the area of focus they want to pursue and the type of competition in which they wish to participate.

The majority seemed to immediately lean toward STEM type games, but I cautioned them not to make a hasty decision and to let each team member fully participate in the discussion. It was interesting to listen to the give and take going on around the classroom. A repeating thread in the discussions seemed to center up the idea that if  students were not good in math, or not good in history, they didn't want to have anything to do with a game covering that subject. I tried to caution them that perhaps that is exactly the area their games should focus upon.  I explained that not only would they be helping themselves to further acquire some mastery in a subject they find difficult, but that they also may have the opportunity to create a game that will, in the future, provide an easier learning path for students yet to reach their grade level.

That thought seemed to have some impact as if for the first time they considered that what they were about to embark upon could have a lasting and positive effect on someone they have never met. As a teacher I could relate, isn't that why we are here? We know we will affect our students, but we secretly hope our influence will then be passed on by our students to others, yet unknown.

The seed was planted today, time will tell.
Will it grow, or will it wither.