Top 5 tips for making learning games effective and impactful.

With the advent of computers, internet and communication technologies games have become more accessible, less costly, highly engaging and lots of fun for players of all ages. In addition, the worth of games in learning has also been explored in education and corporate training as well. 

Games designed for entertainment need to make sure that by utilizing the above attributes, the players enjoy playing and keep coming back for more. As long as the games appeal to their target players, they can be successful. However, in learning games motivation and engagement are not the main goal. Yes, they definitely help the learners get engaged but the ultimate goal is the mastery of knowledge and skills which are important in the workplace. The ultimate goal is the outcome of the gaming experience - the transfer of knowledge or skills gained onto the job.

   
One way to achieve this goal is to integrate simulations designed to teach the desired knowledge and skills. Contrary to entertainment games, where the production costs have to be huge to produce the desired gaming experience, learning games can be made effective by employing strategies that are not cost prohibitive. The design strategies can ensure that simulation-based learning games show results and that the players actually learn

1. Details are neessary.
2. Building appropriate context
3. Balance between instruction and entertainment:
4. Adequate Feedback:   
5. Appropriate challenge levels

More at: http://www.gc-solutions.net/blog/making-learning-games-effective-5-ways-of-ensuring-that-players-learn/

Importance of Mentor in e-Learning

The traditional meaning of ‘Mentor’ is one who offers support and direction. In the corporate scenario, mentoring is an established way of transferring knowledge, developing skills and fostering confidence.

With infusion of e-learning in corporate training, learners are more attuned to self-paced learning. E-Learning provides them the opportunity to learn as per their needs and convenience. Even with ready learning material available, learners often need support during an e-course to fully grasp the concepts and their practical applications.

There are many ways to introduce Mentors in e-learning - the most widely accepted one being through the Learning Management System. There are several reasons for this:

• Easy access for Learners 
• Security
• Moderators can initiate and supervise interactions
• Knowledge is built and grown within the system

Within a modern LMS, there are many technology affordances which support the role of a Mentor for an e-course. Utilizing one or more, a robust channel of communication can be created which supports the learners as per their needs.

• Mentoring through E-Mail 
• Mentoring through instant messaging/chat  
• Mentoring through video-chat  
• Mentoring through message board/discussion boards 

Read More at:  http://www.gc-solutions.net/blog/the-role-of-mentor-in-e-learning-adding-the-human-touch/