Video Games as Tillers of Soil

Minecraft Education Edition’s Ability to Create an Effective and Engaging Learning Experience

“…This is elaborated by multiple peer-reviewed sources, such as a paper by Arena (2015) and a study by Coleman and Money (2019), which reveal game-based learning can create student-centered learning experiences. Like video games, student-centered learning focuses on a participant's experience through engagement, providing an effective learning experience (Arena, 2015). This is reinforced by Coleman and Money (2019), who state studentcentered learning induces active learning and a deeper understanding of subject material.…”

“…Arena (2015) further connects flow to student-centered game-based learning, stating video games provide an environment where a student can grow with safe room for failure, providing feedback on a task and matching their learning abilities as they progress through the game, engaging the student further. If an instance of game-based learning had these elements, it would provide a fun and effective experience (Arena, 2015).…”

“…However, many instances of game-based learning do not fulfill this balance and are not successful in education. According to Arena (2015), they tend to be closer to glorified schoolwork, with "fun" seemingly forced into the learning experience. This is described as a "chocolate-covered broccoli" experience, mismatching entertainment with education, but only appearing enjoyable, leaving students with an ineffective and unengaging learning experience (Arena 2015).…”

“…According to Arena (2015), they tend to be closer to glorified schoolwork, with "fun" seemingly forced into the learning experience. This is described as a "chocolate-covered broccoli" experience, mismatching entertainment with education, but only appearing enjoyable, leaving students with an ineffective and unengaging learning experience (Arena 2015). Additionally, Kiili's (2005) peer-reviewed study on creating game-based learning models states many games for education employ a "drill and practice" principle.…”