By Dr Amit Bhalla

Education has always evolved with time. From chalkboards to computers, every innovation has shaped the way students learn. Today, gaming is entering the classroom in a unique way, offering new opportunities and challenges for students. Competitive video games, interactive coding platforms, and immersive simulation tools are increasingly used to complement traditional education.

E-sports tournaments are attracting young minds with strategy, teamwork, and quick decision-making. Playing competitively encourages critical thinking under pressure and teaches collaboration, skills that transfer to classroom projects and real-life problem-solving. However, it is also important to reflect on the kind of games students engage with. Many popular games focus on competition, fighting, or conquest, which can shape young players’ thinking patterns. Shifting the focus toward games that promote collaboration, creation, and collective success can help move learning from competition to cooperation, from destruction to development, and from conquering to building together.

Coding games are another exciting avenue. Platforms that teach programming through interactive challenges make learning logical thinking and algorithmic skills engaging. Students who might find conventional coding classes dry often enjoy games that reward progress, creativity, and experimentation. Seeing their code come alive on the screen builds confidence and encourages a hands-on approach to learning.

Simulation-based learning is also changing the educational landscape. Virtual labs, city-building games, and historical simulations allow students to explore complex concepts in a risk-free environment. For instance, students can experiment with chemical reactions, manage virtual ecosystems, or even role-play historical events without the constraints of time, cost, or safety. These experiences make abstract ideas easier to grasp and retain.

However, it is important to maintain balance. Gaming should not replace core studies or reduce physical activity. Excessive screen time can affect attention spans, social skills, and overall health. Like any tool, gaming works best when integrated thoughtfully into a well-rounded learning plan. Teachers and parents must guide children, setting limits and encouraging reflective discussions about what they learn through these experiences.

Another key aspect is accessibility. Not all students may have the resources to participate in high-tech gaming or simulations. Schools and educators need to ensure that these tools complement traditional methods rather than create new barriers. Gaming should be an additional layer of engagement, a way to enhance learning for all students.

It is about blending multiple approaches to make learning interactive, enjoyable, and effective. By embracing the benefits of gaming while remaining aware of its limitations, educators can prepare students for a world that values creativity, adaptability, and collaboration. Students can enjoy their learning journey while developing skills that are increasingly important in a digital age.

Dr Amit Bhalla is the Vice President, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions.

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and ETEDUCATION does not necessarily subscribe to it. ETEDUCATION will not be responsible for any damage caused to any person or organisation directly or indirectly.

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