Problems with Games

Here’s a training game that deals with problems with games. The structure of this game can be easily applied to other content areas. Also, the game can be modified to suit different training contexts.

Synopsis

Ask an open-ended question about problems associated with training games. Invite the participants to write a single-word answer. Later, invite the participants to exchange their answers and discuss them.

Purpose

To identify problems associated with training games.

Participants

  • Minimum: 3

  • Maximum: Any number

  • Best: 10 to 40

Time

10 – 20 minutes

Supplies

Small pieces of paper

Pens

Flow

Ask a question. Use this open-ended question that permits several acceptable alternative answers: What problems could be associated with training games?

Write short answers. Invite the participants to independently write a one-word answer on a small piece of paper and fold it. Permit the participants to write more than one alternative answer, each answer on a separate piece of paper.

Switch the answers. Ask the participants to exchange their folded answers with someone else. Ask them to keep exchanging the answers several times.

Review the answers. Ask the participants to stop exchanging the answers, open the piece of paper they currently have, and silently read the answer.

Share the answers. Invite a random participant to read aloud the answer. Ask the other participants to raise their hand if they have the same answer (or a similar answer). Continue this process to identify different answers.

Relate the answers to the training topic. Invite the participants to share suitable ideas for preventing each type of problem. Present your own ideas. Repeat this procedure to share a variety of countermeasures to problem related to the use of training games.

An Assignment

One of the game design techniques I use is to save the structure of the game and change the content. Another technique is to modify the flow of the game to accommodate such factors as the timing, duration, number of players, and the delivery system.

Here’s an assignment for you: Reflect on this game and conduct it with your own group. Come up with ideas for adapting this game with other topics. Also think of ideas for modifying the game for use in other contexts.