This week, we looked at gamification in the classroom. As a gamer myself, I’m a big fan of the idea and I do think it has its merits. I absolutely believe that it provides a fun incentive to learning that kids enjoy; and it can add a competitive element that kids also tend to connect with, both on an individual and team-based level. However, I do think it has its limitations as well. It works really well for younger students who see it as a fun game, and at times may need an extra push in order to get them to practice or engage in class topics on their own. However, it’s not something I would consider using at the upper levels of high school (probably not past grade 8 or 9 at the latest). I think at a certain point, kids may grow tired of the system or might just not take it all that seriously (older kids in particular, who may see it as something for younger kids and not all that “cool”). In addition, as a high school music teacher, I would really have to evaluate whether it would be a system I would use. I would particularly be worried though, if the system is somewhat successful, if it would detract from the intrinsic value of learning music and how to play an instrument for the sake of learning those things and instead be conditioned to learn for a reward; I wouldn’t want kids to lose that spark for music. As a music educator, one of my goals would not just be getting certain keeners to go on to music school, but to foster that connection with music in all my students. I would want them to continue playing in community bands, or make beats on their own time, or continue singing and making their own music, even beyond high school. A lifelong love and appreciation for music is what I would want my students to take away from music class the most, I think. I’m not saying I wouldn’t use gamification at all – but I’m not sure “you’ll receive x reward for learning these aspects of this piece” is the message I want to be sending either. I would want my students to connect with each piece on a much deeper level than that.