Learning from video games is a concept that has gained increasing attention in recent years. Video games offer a unique platform for learning due to their interactive nature, immersive environments, and the engagement they provide. Parents and educators should guide young players in choosing games that align with their learning goals and values. Moreover, the effectiveness of learning through video games may vary depending on the individual’s engagement and approach to gameplay.
Learning Via Video Games
Some video games, particularly sandbox and construction-based games, encourage players to be creative and innovative. Players can build structures, design landscapes, and craft unique in-game objects, fostering creativity. This is all available because of the development of technology. Apart from offering pay to write essay for academic school papers and essay writing assignments, students can learn history online through video games. Here are several ways in which learning can occur through video games:
- Cognitive Skills
- Creativity
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Historical and Cultural Insights
- Language and Literacy
- Scientific Concepts
- Problem-Solving
- Adaptability
Learning History By Playing Assassin’s Creed
Assassin’s Creed is a popular video game franchise developed by Ubisoft. The games are known for their historical settings and attention to detail when recreating historical periods. While they are not meant to be strict historical documentaries, they can still offer players an engaging way to learn about different historical eras and events. Here’s how you can use Assassin’s Creed games to learn history:
Historical Settings
Each game is set in a different historical period and location, such as the Renaissance in Italy (Assassin’s Creed II), Ancient Egypt (Assassin’s Creed Origins), Victorian London (Assassin’s Creed Syndicate), and more. These settings are often richly detailed and meticulously researched, offering players a chance to explore and interact with historical events and figures. The games feature expansive open-world environments that players can freely explore.
Immersive Environments
The games provide a virtual environment that allows players to explore historical cities and landmarks. While playing, take your time to explore the surroundings, pay attention to architectural details, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the time. Assassin’s Creed games often include collectible items and codex entries that provide additional historical context. Collectibles may include letters, documents, and artifacts that offer insights into the daily lives of people during that era.
Characters and Dialogues
Many historical figures are featured in the games. Listen to the in-game dialogues, read character biographies, and understand the roles these figures played in the events of the time. History majors and enthusiasts engage in side quests and missions that may introduce them to lesser-known historical events or cultural practices. These quests often offer a deeper look into the lives of common people during the historical period.
Events and Conflicts
Experience historical events and conflicts through the game’s narrative. While the game’s portrayal might take artistic liberties, it can still give you a sense of the challenges and struggles of the time. Many games feature a database with entries that provide historical information about various aspects of the setting, such as landmarks, architecture, clothing, and more. Take the time to read these entries for a better understanding of the historical context.
Comparison with Real History
After playing the game, you can compare the events and characters you encountered with real historical records. Video gaming culture has helped students distinguish between the game’s storytelling and actual historical facts. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the historical context, consider using external resources such as books, documentaries, and online articles about the specific time featured in the game.
To Conclude
It’s important to note that while video games can offer many educational benefits, moderation and age-appropriate content selection are key. Remember that while Assassin’s Creed games aim to capture the essence of historical periods, they are still fictional narratives and may take creative liberties for gameplay purposes. It’s a good idea to use them as a starting point for learning about history and then delve deeper into the real historical records and sources to gain a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the past.
Author’s Bio – Mark Wooten
Mark Wooten is a passionate history professor with a unique blend of academic expertise and a deep fascination for gaming. With a lifelong commitment to history education and gaming culture, he has seamlessly merged these two interests to create an innovative approach to teaching and research. With seven years of experience, Mark has pioneered an approach that engages students in a dynamic and interactive learning experience.
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