5 Simple Rules for Using Game Shows to
Enhance your Classroom
1. Practice inconsequential competition – although students tend to like competition, they do not
learn well if the stakes induce high stress. Use point systems that lead to inconsequential fun
rewards (snack size candy bars, novelty items etc.)
a. Quick tip - I collect the free give-a-ways at professional conferences and use them as my
game rewards. (pens, name tag holders, squeeze ambulances, cheap sunglasses, trauma
shears etc..)
b. Never use games as a grading factor
2. Target essential course content – the best way to do this is to organize the games around
important terms (vocabulary, anatomical sites etc.) and phrases (Cushing Triad, Raccoon Eyes
S.A.M.P.L.E. etc.)
3. Debrief the game – never just add up the points and move on
a. Use the game debriefing to stimulate discussion, reinforce educational content and
support the learning process
4. Have your students revisit their notes after the game and debriefing
a. Set aside a few minutes after the game and debriefing are completed for your students
to revise or add to their notes.
b. Encourage them to capitalize on what they learned during the game.
5. Games in the classroom should always be used purposefully and thoughtfully
a. Never use a game to fill time or to stress students – remember negativity breeds
negativity, especially in the classroom
b. “Positive emotions allow the brain to make better perceptual maps” Eric Jensen, The
Learning Brain, Turning Point Publishing, 1995.
c. When the learner is feeling positive, they are able to sort out experiences better, and
recall clarity improves.
Free resources for education games show support and ideas:
1. https://www.superteachertools.net/# - Super Teacher Tools – free classroom games and tools
site
2. http://facstaff.uww.edu/jonesd/games/games_parade_scavenger_hunt.html - Parade of Games
– free Powerpoint based games show site
3. http://quizboxes.com/ - Stu’s Quiz Boxes – free Quiz show site
John Todaro, BA, NRP, RN, TNS, NCEE
EMS/CME Academic Department Coordinator
St Petersburg College
Pinellas Park, Florida
[email protected]