Game-based learning is an effort to redirect the learning that naturally occurs very organically in games and to channel that towards subjects and skills that are useful outside of the game itself. In this episode, Bobby Lockhart and Valentin Bryukhanov, two game developers who were key to creating our text-based coding adventure game, Ozaria, discuss game-based learning and how to use the principles and strategies of game design to create engaging learning experiences.

In this conversation, our guests discuss the distinction between game-based learning and educational games and the importance of various perspectives when designing. “Every game is educational, but we can put more intention in that goal” Briukhanov says.

What does chocolate covered broccoli have to do with game design?! Lockhart explains that when the game mechanics and the learning concept don't match up, you have chocolate covered broccoli. Broccoli is nice on its own and chocolate is nice on its own, and if you combine them, it's no good at all. An engaging learning experience thoughtfully integrates the game mechanics and learning concepts.

Concluding the conversation, Lockhart and Briukhanov discuss how game design can make an impact on the future of education and share their advice for those interested in game design for the EdTech space.

Recommended Resources from the Interview:

Books:

What Video Games Have to Teach Us About Learning and Literacy by James Gee

The Diamond Age by Neal Stephenson

Level Up! The Guide to Great Video GameDesign by Scott Rogers

The Children's Machine by Seymour Papert

Some of our guests' personal favorite games:

Codemancer

while True: learn()

Assassin's Creed

Civilization

League of Legends

Dota