Playful didactics in university teaching
What happens when a goat suddenly appears in a Zoom call? How can a dice bring new ideas to a seminar? And what exactly is the difference between ludic didactics, gamification, and playification?
In this episode of Schampar digital, we talk to Mela Kocher, lecturer and researcher in game design and co-head of e-learning at ZHdK, about playful approaches to teaching and learning at university.
Mela provides insights into her teaching practice, shares concrete examples, and shows how game mechanics can be specifically integrated into learning settings. Not as entertainment, but as a conscious didactic strategy. Because playful elements can not only motivate, but also strengthen the relationship between learners and teachers, promote self-efficacy, and support learning processes in the long term.
We also learn why rock-paper-scissors is an underrated tool in everyday life, what makes Duolingo so successful, and how a dice can help you work through your to-do lists.
A conversation about creative methods in teaching, digital learning cultures, and the importance of lightness and a willingness to experiment in everyday university life.
Mela Kocher researches and designs the potential of play and games at ZHdK. As co-head of e-learning and project manager for ludic didactics, she develops new, experimental teaching formats using digital tools. She is also a researcher and lecturer in game design, where she teaches and mentors students in serious and applied games, gamification, playification, and urban games.
Further links and game ideas
- E-Learning at ZHdK. Learning and teaching in the digital age
- E-Learning Blog with insights and interviews on digital learning and teaching cultures
- Studying Game Design at ZHdK
- Website of the ZHdK GameLab
- Wheel of fortune: Spin the wheel
- Gamification methods: Gamified UK
- Bingo for teaching: Bingo Card Generator
- Game ideas and essays on play, by Eric Zimmerman