An Alternative to a Lecture

Can gaming be educational? Believe it or not, it can be. Students want to have a way to learn that interests them and gaming is that solution. You just have to find the right games. For example, Oregon Trail. This game steps back into history to teach students about the realities of pioneer life on the Oregon Trail. In this game, students take on the role of a wagon leader that is guiding his/her group of settlers from Independence, Missouri, to Oregon's Willamette Valley. It's actually pretty hard to beat. You really have to think and make the right choices before you leave, such as your occupation, what time of the year to leave, and what to buy and how much to buy of it. Not only that, but you also have to make the right choices along the way, such as when to stop and rest, when to hunt, what to trade, who to talk to, etc. The first time I played, I died halfway through. However, I was learning and having fun at the same time. Therefore, gaming can be educational because you're visually learning.