(fig.: Triseum, „Variant: Limits“, 2017)
Is it possible to acchieve better memorization of information or increase concentration through gamification? Information is processed through two channels in the brain — visual and auditory.
If both channels are used when presenting new information, the working memory of the brain can make use of more new information. (1) Not only can gamification be used to process more information at the same time, it can also help remember it better. On one hand this is because the brain is wired to prioritze anything presented in the form of a story over just a list of facts. Therefore if the information is packed in a game with a compelling story it gets easier to remember. On the other hand, clinical tests have shown that game play activates the hippocampus, which controls memory recall. Thus if gameplay is combined with new information it becomes then easier for the brain to recall this information later on. (2)
I would like to have a closer look at how integrating information in a compelling story could affect the memorization and learning outcome. Such as Texas-based professor Andre Thomas and his company Triseum did in „Variant: Limits“. A videogame aimed to teach students caluculus by sending them on virtual adventures where they need to solve problems using math. (3)
1. https://www.theedadvocate.org/how-does-gamification-effect-the-learning-process/
2. http://www.growthengineering.co.uk/the-neuroscience-of-gamification-in-online-learning/
3. https://www.insidehighered.com/digital-learning/article/2017/02/22/texas-professor-creates-game-teach-calculus
