The Zukunftsinstitut (Future Institute) has identified twelve megatrends that will sustainably shape our society, our work, and our lives today and, in particular, in the future. One of these megatrends: the culture of knowledge. Today, knowledge can already be conveyed much faster, more efficiently, more directly, and more broadly via digital channels than ever before. This trend is continuing and intensifying due to another megatrend: connectivity. With rising levels of education, the trend towards knowledge acquisition and dissemination is becoming increasingly important. Two sub-trends that have emerged from this are edutainment and lifelong learning.

Due to the high-speed dissemination of information, knowledge becomes obsolete extremely quickly, which is why no one ever stops learning – everything is in flux. Lifelong learning is an increasingly important topic both in personal development and in human resources. But if we are already stuck in an eternal learning process, it should at least be fun. Edutainment approaches knowledge transfer in an entertaining and playful way.

This trend can also already be seen in entertainment formats on TV and online. However, it is also playing an increasingly growing role in organizations. Game-based learning combines both sub-trends and offers great potential for learning organizations.

• What is Game-Based Learning?
• 3 formats for Game-Based Learning in companies
• 2 factors for good e-learning games

What is Game-Based Learning?

Game-based learning in companies is understood as a learning approach that incorporates playful elements. In a game, we react differently than in a classic work context, which means that behavioral and thought patterns are broken down. While we might lose attention during a training session after just the second PowerPoint slide because the instructor relies on the conventional structure of a training course, we can approach things with real motivation in an e-learning game.

There, points can perhaps be earned, and there is a comparison with competitors, aka colleagues. Such a situation stimulates us in a motivating environment and our brain switches to "active." In this way, new learning experiences can be gained in a structured and optimally designed environment.

3 formats for Game-Based Learning in companies

These are the three best-known formats for game-based learning in companies that have also proven themselves in practice.

Competitions

E-learning games with a competitive character invite you to compare yourself with others and to test yourself. Very popular are quiz apps, through which employees and teams can playfully compare themselves.

Courses

Entire online courses can also be developed with playful elements. Participants can work through larger topics in a learning journey and, in the best case, interact with other players and collaborate.

Simulations

Game-based learning in companies can also be used in the form of simulations using AI technology: In customer service, in technical activities, or in management, employees can be confronted with situations that challenge them. Through the simulation in a test field, they find out what the consequences of their behavior are and with which patterns of action they are most likely to achieve their goals.

2 factors for good E-Learning games

If the technology is right, it ultimately depends on the design and strategy whether a game-based learning idea takes off in the company. Two factors should be taken into account.

→ The employee is actively involved

Good e-learning games allow employees to take action. They should not consume information passively – because that way it doesn't stick – but should be able to actively work out solutions and "aha!" moments. 

→ The e-learning game creates positive experiences

E-learning games should always provide positive feedback, because: Anyone who doesn't encounter new insights, doesn't make progress in the game, and loses, will not play again very quickly. By structuring the levels in such a way that they are actually doable – perhaps with assistance – employees get a motivational boost.

A quiz app is a game-based learning format that can be implemented quickly and in almost any corporate context. Do you want to learn more about this format and its technical implementation?