Using games to promote classroom learning (in the form of low-cost education toolkits)

Abstract

In this study we have tried to address the issue of lack of robust toolkits designed specifically for the Indian curriculum, to impart better education and ensure to meet all the learning objectives. We analyzed the current Indian education system and identified why it still lacks in several metrics like literacy and dropout rates, to mention a few. Our hypothesis while approaching this project was that if we can create compelling and effective low-cost educational toolkits and implement them as a part of the classroom pedagogy, then we will improve these metrics by driving engagement and interest of the students. This would in-turn affect the performance of the students and help them reach the next level intellectually. We decided to implement concepts from the NCERT learning objectives that are set by the HRD ministry. After talking to the experts at our institute, we decided to approach the primary government schools around us in order to better understand the challenges they face in teaching senior-high standard students (classes 6th to 8th). We interacted with various education practitioners and students at these schools, observed them at close quarters, not unlike the accompanied shopper technique used in qualitative research in marketing. We learnt a lot by observing them during classes, outside classes during recess and play time, and by interacting with them in a group akin to conducting a focused group discussion. Several aspects of their life were brought up during candid discussion that we had regarding their personal and school lives. We built a good rapport with the students and even got to test a few of our low-cost educational toolkits to get their feedback about the same. We designed eight low-cost games that were either learning based or concept testing based, after incorporating suggestions from stakeholders like teachers and students.