Though both board games and online games vary in terms of benefits and drawbacks, computer games are a fun and engaging way to add variety to the classroom, they break up the monotony of traditional teaching methods, and help students learn and retain new information.
They can be used to review material, introduce new concepts, or simply provide a break from the routine of the classroom. Many games can be adapted to different subjects and grade levels, making them versatile and useful for any classroom setting. And the best part is that technology has made it so easy for students to access these.
Online games like Monopoly which involve general knowledge, numbers, and vocabulary, can offer a great way to encourage learning. As games can be so helpful in both student-teacher relationships and learning progress, below is a collection of computer games that teachers can use to make classrooms fun and lively.
Engaging and interactive computer games to bust classroom boredom
Computer games can be fun and improve several aspects of development, here’s how:
1. Bingo
Bingo is a popular game for large groups and parties that is played with a printed bingo card and a set of random numbers that are called out by the caller. However, children can now access this game in a variety of formats, be it addition, subtraction, or simply numbers, through the computer.
The game presents a series of questions and the player has to choose the correct answer. For instance, if the game shows 4+3, then the player needs to cancel out 7 from the bingo card.. The first player to have cut out all numbers either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, will win.
Bingo can be adapted for different age groups and educators can use it to make maths and numbers more interesting. It can also be played by using pictures, words, or math problems instead of numbers. It is a great game for kids as it helps with number recognition, concentration, and socialization.
2. Song Trivia
Let’s face it classroom games are always seen under the parameters of their educational significance and benefits. However, games inherently don’t have to be educational, they can be an ice-breaker or a team-building activity. The Name that Tunes games like SongTrivia, doesn’t serve an educational purpose, but offer a great way to engage children of all ages and for teachers to bond better.
In this game, a short clip of a song will play and students have to guess the title of the song. The student who guesses correctly gets to choose the next song. While Name That Tune is a fun way to review songs, it can be modified to test listening comprehension as a classroom offline activity.
3. Dumb Charades
The classic game of dumb charades is a cult favorite. This online game divides players into teams and can also be played solo when bored on the computer.
The other players of the team have to guess what the player is acting out. Charades are a great way to get students moving and laughing in class. While it is mostly played with movies, teachers can also use it to help students practice new vocabulary or grammar, just like the game of pictionary and telestrations. Hence, it is also a great grammar game.
4. Two Truths and a Lie
The “Two Truths and a Lie” game is a fun and interactive way for teachers to engage their students. In this game, players can access their desktops and look at the three statements presented. Two of the statements are true and one is a lie. The players have to guess which statement is the lie. This game is a fun way to get to know your general knowledge and learn more about the world.
While it is a great icebreaker activity to help students get to know one another better, teachers can use it to incorporate creative writing or storytelling into the classroom. Owing to its versatility, the game can be tailored to different subjects, such as history, science, or literature, as an offline activity.
5. The “Mystery Word” game
Similar to the hangman game, the mystery word game is perfect for practicing vocabulary and spelling in the classroom. The game presents a mystery word on the screen but covers up some of the letters with blank spaces.
The students then have to guess the missing letters, with each correct guess earning them a point. The first student to correctly guess the mystery word wins. To add more fun, teachers can split students into teams. This game can be adapted to different subjects, such as language arts or science, and can also be used with young children who have far less vocabulary.
6. Division Derby
Division Derby” is a fun and educational game designed for kids to practice their division skills. It allows players to choose a difficulty level, making it suitable for different skill levels. The game consists of a series of division problems that players must solve as quickly as possible.
The player and the computer race to the finish line by solving the problems, with the player entering the answers using the keyboard. The objective is to reach the finish line first by solving the problems faster than the computer. “Division Derby” is not only a fun way to practice division, but it also helps to improve math skills, increase speed and accuracy, and boost confidence.
7. Detective X and the Missing Variable
Detective X Algebra” is an educational math game designed to help kids practice and improve their algebra skills. Players take on the role of Detective X and solve a series of crimes by solving algebraic equations. The game presents players with a crime scene description and a missing variable in each equation, which players must determine and enter using the keyboard.
If the answer is correct, Detective X moves closer to solving the crime. The objective is to solve all the equations and complete the investigation, thereby improving algebra skills and problem-solving abilities. This game is a fun and interactive way for kids to practice algebra and improve their math skills while participating in a virtual crime investigation just like you play the role of detective in Obscurio and Mysterium board game.
8. Mathpup Words
MathPup Words is an entertaining and educational math vocabulary game that is designed to enhance vocabulary and spelling skills. It is the best choice when bored on the computer as the game works by presenting the player with blanks and the player must guess the letters to form the correct word.
With three difficulty levels – easy, medium, and hard – this game is suitable for players of all ages and abilities. The objective of the game is to solve as many blanks as possible and become a MathPup Word master. This game is a great way to have fun while improving language skills, and it’s an ideal tool for parents, teachers, and students alike.
9. Telling Time Clock
Telling the time clock is a perfect game to pass the time and learn about time. In essence, it teaches players how to tell time. This game offers a variety of levels – from easy to hard – to accommodate players of all ages and skill levels. The game presents players with both digital and analog clocks and requires them to match the correct time.
This telling time game is a great way to improve time-telling skills and have fun at the same time when bored on the computer. Whether a beginner or looking to improve, “MathPup’s Time Adventure” is the perfect tool for learning and practicing this important life skill.
10. Literary Texts Snow Fight
Literary Texts Snow Fight is an educational game that tests players’ knowledge of literary texts. The game offers three levels of difficulty – easy, medium, and hard making it perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Players will be presented with a variety of texts and must answer questions based on their understanding.
The format of the game is like a quiz and questions range from theories to concepts to myths. This game is a great way to improve literacy skills and have fun at the same time. Whether a student, teacher, or someone who loves literature, Literary Texts Snow Fight is the perfect tool for improving your literary knowledge and understanding.
Conclusion
Computer games provide an interactive and engaging way to make learning fun and memorable for students. By tapping into the power of play, students are able to explore, experiment, and discover new concepts in a way that is both enjoyable and effective.
Through the above-mentioned games, computers not only help students to learn but also to grow in their critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. So, for a modern classroom, embracing the power of technology and making learning an adventure with classroom games is the way to go about it.