Mobile games and learning

What is it about?

Although video game research is wrought with discouraging findings, game-based learning (GBL) continues to be a major vein of study. One of the more promising outcomes has been the applied use of video games in educational situations outside of the classroom. Mobile games are of particular interest because their anytime-, anywhere-, and on-any-device characteristics may offer new opportunities to leverage benefits believed to come from GBL. This chapter reviews the benefits of video games, specifically focused on the educational contribution of mobile games.

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Why is it important?

The location-based features of mobile technology have sparked interest in the educational potential of mobile games because they offer opportunities to infuse learning in authentic environments. By blending the virtual and real world, these games can be used at authentic places, such as historical sites, to help students learn about past people, locations, and events. Subsequently, mobile devices go beyond their attractiveness, widespread ownership, and everyday use, warranting serious study as to the role mobile games play in education. The use of mobile games in learning is discussed in this chapter, with examples of games offered that have been experimented with and/or used in educational situations.

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