ASSURE Model divides technology integration into six phases. When it comes to integrating game-based learning into your instruction, which phase(s) do you think is the most critical? What are the elements/steps a teacher should pay particular attention to? Support your choices by citing sources from the module’s reading.
Although all phases in the ASSURE model are important, when integrating game-based learning into my instruction, the most critical phase is analyzing learners. This phase is important because “if instructional media are to be used effectively, there must be a match between the characteristics of the learner and the content of the lesson’s methods, media, and materials.” In this phase, the teacher will note general characteristics of the students, specific entry competencies, and learning styles. By knowing our kiddos and what helps them learn best, we can ensure that integrating game-based learning with technological resources will be successfully designed to meet their needs.
Creating objectives is also critical. According to our reading, “writing learning objectives is probably the most important step during the planning and design phase.” Why use a game-based resource if it does not yield students reaching a set objective? The third most critical phase is selecting strategies and resources because it requires the teachers to choose a method, media format, and select, modify, or design specific materials. This would entail the teacher involving the media specialists and finding appropriate apps, web-based games, or virtual reality experiences that relate back to the objective and students’ interests.
Lastly, evaluating and revising are critical to being a reflective practitioner, which is what being a teacher is all about. As our reading stated, “evaluation and revision is an essential component to the development of quality instruction.” In this phase, the teacher assesses both learner achievement and the methods and media used. This phase is critical because it requires teachers to ask questions and reflect on the integrated game-based learning experience.
Some elements/steps that teachers should pay particular attention to are the different learning styles and entry competencies possessed by students, the “ABCD’s” of objectives, and the “5 P’s” when utilizing the selected resource(s).