Vocabulary words
I like to have students make mini crossword puzzles and word searches of vocabulary words. Puzzles reinforce word definitions and word searches reinforce spelling. They enjoy the activities and seem to demonstrate better retention.
Wanda,
Creative instructors find interesting or fun ways to mask "learning" in the guise of games, puzzles, competitions and the like. I think this is perfectly suitable. No one has ever said learning can't be fun. And the outcome should be our focus anyway - if students learn, then I'm all for it.
Barry Westling
I have a course with lots of key terms. My students start to "grumble" when they have to do definitions. I have tried on several occasions to use games and this works well, especially at the end of class time when they begin to get restless and want to leave.
ROBERT,
The activities we use to facilitate learning has no limitations, especially if the activities are successful, and lead to learning. Just because some may label something as a game does not mean it can't be an effective learning tool. And if games are something students are used to, they will be more willing to participate in them.
Barry Westling
I have observed over the years that this generation loves games. So if you can review the material in game format they really get into it. Some games I use are jeopardy, who wants to be a millionaire, Secret Square and the weakest link. In addition I also use cross word puzzles and yes they are fun but they also teach some basic diagnostic skills. Crossword puzzles teach how to use clues to go from the unknown to the known this is the basis of learning how to use knowledge to diagnose.
Fatemeh,
That is a great idea to use crossword puzzles and word searches, it seems like students will have fun and learn at the same time. I am going to incorporate that into my classes next term. In my class we do spelling bee's, the students get to hear how the word is pronounced and since I teach medical terminology, this gives the students a chance to hear what the word actually sounds like.
Fatemeh,
Instruction should be fun and enjoyable - puzzles, games, activities that get students to think about topics they are learning about make for memorable learning experiences. Retention is nealy always better when students enjoy the learning experience.
Barry Westling
