Although some readers might be bewildered with the title of the article but it is actually true that at least some part of algebra can be learnt with video games. Algebra, a branch of mathematics is considered to be difficult by a large part of K-12 students owing to the symbolic manipulation of linear equations. However, the developers of a particular video game, namely, DragonBox are confident that after completing the game, which takes nearly 42 minutes, students can learn algebra.
DragonBox is actually an app developed by Jean-Baptiste Hyunh, which enables players to have an understanding of algebra. Game based learning has recently received support from all quarters considering the fact that games add fun to the otherwise boring part of learning, at least for the kids. With more and more kids having access to iPads, tablets and other gadgets, it is only a matter of time when education would be more gadget-based rather than textbook-based.
How DragonBox Works
The Dragon Box is a math game where players have to think logically to solve the puzzles. The puzzles are so designed that they make the players solve equations. There are various levels to the game, each of which is unlocked when an equation is balanced. The game does not pose a bunch of problems in front of the player but urges them to think algebraically.
Instead of the normal problems that ask students to solve “x + y”, Dragon Box uses objects and avatars. It starts at a basic level and provides the users characters and the ways to separate them. The steps taught in algebra by the conventional method are taught and practiced by the users digitally, without knowing that they are actually practicing algebra. The concepts involved in Dragon Box include fractions, elimination and isolating variables. In addition, steps such as applying similar strategy on both the sides of the equation, changing whole numbers into fractions and looking for like terms are also taught. Children are able to relate to them and retain them in a much better way as compared to the traditional x and y format.
Are video games adequate to teach?
Taking the instance of Dragon Box, it can definitely be said that video games do help in inculcating certain elements of education. It teaches the mechanism of the algebra process but it should not be thought that this is a 100% method to teach algebra. DragonBox does one half of the work while the rest must be done by the conventional methods of teaching through a tutor. The video game does not replace a teacher but helps in developing the mechanics of the algebra process. There is always the requirement of teachers that can transfer the knowledge on paper. However, the task of teaching kid algebra for the first time is definitely made easier by DragonBox.
Future of education based video games
With the trend of gadget-based learning gaining momentum with the popularity of tablets and iPads, the future of education based video games is surely bright. Games like DragonBox are soon going to be must-haves for educators as they are more learner-centric. The games teach the kids, the way they want to learn. As they are already motivated to learn, teaching them would not be a problem.
Benefits of DragonBox
1. The app imparts education in a way that is fine-tuned or customized for the kids. They are made to solve problems thinking like a mathematician. This element of the game makes the users learn algebra without their knowledge.
2. The game keeps track of the levels crossed making it possible to assess the progress of the user.
3. The incorporation of social elements helps the users in socializing.
Therefore, it can be rightly said that one can learn algebra with video games.
About the Author:
William Taylor is a professional blogger and content writer. He likes to blog about gaming, gadgets and technology. His site Motorbike Games 365 is also for playing online Motor Bike games.
DragonBox is actually an app developed by Jean-Baptiste Hyunh, which enables players to have an understanding of algebra. Game based learning has recently received support from all quarters considering the fact that games add fun to the otherwise boring part of learning, at least for the kids. With more and more kids having access to iPads, tablets and other gadgets, it is only a matter of time when education would be more gadget-based rather than textbook-based.
How DragonBox Works
The Dragon Box is a math game where players have to think logically to solve the puzzles. The puzzles are so designed that they make the players solve equations. There are various levels to the game, each of which is unlocked when an equation is balanced. The game does not pose a bunch of problems in front of the player but urges them to think algebraically.
Instead of the normal problems that ask students to solve “x + y”, Dragon Box uses objects and avatars. It starts at a basic level and provides the users characters and the ways to separate them. The steps taught in algebra by the conventional method are taught and practiced by the users digitally, without knowing that they are actually practicing algebra. The concepts involved in Dragon Box include fractions, elimination and isolating variables. In addition, steps such as applying similar strategy on both the sides of the equation, changing whole numbers into fractions and looking for like terms are also taught. Children are able to relate to them and retain them in a much better way as compared to the traditional x and y format.
Are video games adequate to teach?
Taking the instance of Dragon Box, it can definitely be said that video games do help in inculcating certain elements of education. It teaches the mechanism of the algebra process but it should not be thought that this is a 100% method to teach algebra. DragonBox does one half of the work while the rest must be done by the conventional methods of teaching through a tutor. The video game does not replace a teacher but helps in developing the mechanics of the algebra process. There is always the requirement of teachers that can transfer the knowledge on paper. However, the task of teaching kid algebra for the first time is definitely made easier by DragonBox.
Future of education based video games
With the trend of gadget-based learning gaining momentum with the popularity of tablets and iPads, the future of education based video games is surely bright. Games like DragonBox are soon going to be must-haves for educators as they are more learner-centric. The games teach the kids, the way they want to learn. As they are already motivated to learn, teaching them would not be a problem.
Benefits of DragonBox
1. The app imparts education in a way that is fine-tuned or customized for the kids. They are made to solve problems thinking like a mathematician. This element of the game makes the users learn algebra without their knowledge.
2. The game keeps track of the levels crossed making it possible to assess the progress of the user.
3. The incorporation of social elements helps the users in socializing.
Therefore, it can be rightly said that one can learn algebra with video games.
About the Author:
William Taylor is a professional blogger and content writer. He likes to blog about gaming, gadgets and technology. His site Motorbike Games 365 is also for playing online Motor Bike games.
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