The Tech Edvocate

Top Menu

  • Advertisement
  • Apps
  • Home Page
  • Home Page Five (No Sidebar)
  • Home Page Four
  • Home Page Three
  • Home Page Two
  • Home Tech2
  • Icons [No Sidebar]
  • Left Sidbear Page
  • Lynch Educational Consulting
  • My Account
  • My Speaking Page
  • Newsletter Sign Up Confirmation
  • Newsletter Unsubscription
  • Our Brands
  • Page Example
  • Privacy Policy
  • Protected Content
  • Register
  • Request a Product Review
  • Shop
  • Shortcodes Examples
  • Signup
  • Start Here
    • Governance
    • Careers
    • Contact Us
  • Terms and Conditions
  • The Edvocate
  • The Tech Edvocate Product Guide
  • Topics
  • Write For Us
  • Advertise

Main Menu

  • Start Here
    • Our Brands
    • Governance
      • Lynch Educational Consulting
      • Dr. Lynch’s Personal Website
      • Careers
    • Write For Us
    • The Tech Edvocate Product Guide
    • Contact Us
    • Books
    • Pedagogue
    • Edupedia
    • The Edvocate Podcast
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Privacy Policy
  • Topics
    • Assistive Technology
    • Child Development Tech
    • Early Childhood & K-12 EdTech
    • EdTech Futures
    • EdTech News
    • EdTech Policy & Reform
    • EdTech Startups & Businesses
    • Higher Education EdTech
    • Online Learning & eLearning
    • Parent & Family Tech
    • Personalized Learning
    • Product Reviews
  • Advertise
  • Apps
  • Tech Edvocate Awards
  • The Edvocate
  • P-20 Ed Careers

logo

The Tech Edvocate

  • Start Here
    • Our Brands
    • Governance
      • Lynch Educational Consulting
      • Dr. Lynch’s Personal Website
        • My Speaking Page
      • Careers
    • Write For Us
    • The Tech Edvocate Product Guide
    • Contact Us
    • Books
    • Pedagogue
    • Edupedia
    • The Edvocate Podcast
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Privacy Policy
  • Topics
    • Assistive Technology
    • Child Development Tech
    • Early Childhood & K-12 EdTech
    • EdTech Futures
    • EdTech News
    • EdTech Policy & Reform
    • EdTech Startups & Businesses
    • Higher Education EdTech
    • Online Learning & eLearning
    • Parent & Family Tech
    • Personalized Learning
    • Product Reviews
  • Advertise
  • Apps
  • Tech Edvocate Awards
  • The Edvocate
  • P-20 Ed Careers
  • Product Review of Planet Lettra

  • Product Review of Prifact

  • Product Review of PREto3

  • Product Review of Preschool & Kindergarten Games

  • Product Review of PraxiSchool

  • Product Review of Powtoon

  • Product Review of PowerSchool

  • Product Review of PowerMyLearning Connect

  • Product Review of Power Math

  • Product Review of Positive Penguins

EdTech Startups & Businesses
Home›EdTech Startups & Businesses›Five EdTech Companies That Are Taking Gamification to the Next Level

Five EdTech Companies That Are Taking Gamification to the Next Level

By Matthew Lynch
February 10, 2017
24796
2
Spread the love

Gamification has grown in popularity as teachers and educators realize the wealth of potential that games offer their students, no matter the age. Fast fading is the idea that video games are a waste of time. Children these days are among the most tech-savvy people precisely because they have been playing games on a range of devices for nearly their entire lives. Gamification is not a new concept (Oregon Trail was a unique blend of fun and learning back in the 1980s), but it is only recently where educators actually began to embrace it for its potential.

As gamification grows in popularity, some Edtech companies have not only embraced it but have found ways to take gamification to a whole new level.

  1. GameDesk

This is a company that is backed by some of the biggest names in tech, such as The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, National Science Foundation, and Marvel. GameDesk is a nonprofit, unlike anything you have encountered. Their focus is on taking the modern classroom and transforming it into a futuristic marvel, and it does this entirely through a game-based learning initiative.

The nonprofit has four major initiatives, each with a different approach to learning and teaching using games at the core.

  • GameDesk Studios is focused on using games to engage and teach students a range of content.
  • Educade is attempting to revolutionize the way teachers present lessons through a slew of interactive apps and hands-on instruction
  • PlayMaker School focuses on student empowerment through learning that is based on discovery and creating. This is a more real-world approach as it seeks to teach students to think for themselves and to be more innovative in solving problems.
  • GameDesk Institute gives students the necessary tools to conduct research and work on professional development. It includes an outreach program for at-risk students.

While there is a bit of overlap between the different initiatives, they all have their own focus that strives to make today’s classroom more accessible and engaging.

If you are interested in following and tracking their initiatives and any related news, you can find them on Twitter (@GameDesk), or you subscribe to their newsletter (at the bottom of the home page).

  1. Trinket

The need for people who can code is still growing because too few students are going into the field. Trinket is tackling this problem head on, and they know their target audience. Students do not want to be trapped at a computer all day, nor do they want to spend an hour or two sitting at a computer coding. Trinket gives them a platform where they can work from anywhere on a mobile device.

It should come as no surprise that many of the things developed on Trinket are games – even the learning aspects of the app are akin to games. If you are interested in introducing coding into your classroom, Trinket gives you everything you need, including a way of giving students a real-time coding challenge. It is fun, engaging, and everything that people think learning to code is not. They even have a musical component to help students learn about music in gaming and app development.

Follow them on Twitter (@trinketapp) or submit a request for more information on their website contact form.

  1. CK-12

No two people learn exactly the same, yet classrooms usually offer only a single approach to problems and solutions. CK-12 offers solutions that go above and beyond to ensure that you can give your students a more personalized (and customized) look at what they are learning.

The best way to do that is with games and lessons that are online. Students can go back and learn about things at their own pace, review lessons you covered, and get an assessment of how well they understood the lessons. There are also some amazing simulations that illustrate some of the most challenging fields that really can’t be followed on paper (such as Physics and Chemistry).

The best way to understand what they have to offer is to go to their website and peruse the many areas and games that are available. There is definitively a math and science heavy approach, but there are other available lessons and games for a few of the arts.

For the latest news and initiatives, follow them on Twitter (@KC12Foundation) or contact them online.

  1. Duolingo

With the rise of globalization, being able to learn to communicate in other languages is becoming increasingly necessary. The problem is that the perception most people have about learning languages is almost entirely negative. This is because language learning requires dedication and the ability to follow through even when things get tough.

Language learning is one of the best areas for gamification, and few have mastered how to do that like Duolingo.

The site offers 18 full courses on a range of languages. There are several languages currently being beta tested (you can join them if you want to help them make better lessons). There are also a number of languages that are currently in the incubation period, and once they reach beta you can start to learn and provide feedback.

The lessons are not just about real world languages either. One of the languages currently being incubated is Klingon, a language from Star Trek. It goes to show that the makers are game for trying things that are both common and uncommon to make something that anyone can enjoy.

Each of the lessons are divided up into very easy to manage sessions. They provide a daily goal for you and track your progress so that you can see what you have learned. Over time, you will need to go back and refresh what you have mastered so that you do not forget, and this does count toward your daily goal, then you can continue with the next lesson. The lessons are also presented in a way that makes it easy to understand, remember, and learn the spellings and sounds. It also is incredibly easy to work into your regular routine. You can download the app if you want to keep up your language lessons on the go.

You can follow them on Twitter (@duolingo) for the latest in news about Duolingo and the future of language learning. If you have questions, you can contact the Duolingo team or talk with the Community.

  1. BrainScape

No matter how well-designed games are, sometimes flashcards are the fastest most efficient way to learn. The problem is that they can be bulky and difficult to carry, making them impractical for use outside of the home. This is where BrainScape has found a niche and turned it into something that offers the ease and customization of games, but with a focus on flashcards.

With an extensive list of possible flashcards topics, you can create your own or ask the program to make the cards for you. Select your deck, and then you can get started memorizing the terms and phrase you need.

The biggest problem with flashcards is that people tend to focus on the areas where they do best, believing that they need to refresh these ideas, so they do not forget them constantly. The problem is that you don’t progress when you always study what you know instead of focusing on your weaker areas. This gives you the false impression that you are doing better than you actually are. Brainscape does not allow for this. Instead, it forces you to focus and learn the things where you are weak. This means you will make real progress. There will be some refreshers on your strong areas as well so that you don’t forget, it just won’t be where you start your lessons.

If you would like to read about the latest tips, tricks, or test methods, you can follow them on Twitter (@Brainscape), or you can submit questions on their online form.

Conclusion

Gamification can be used in many different ways. Whether your students need a better set of flashcards, hands-on experience, or a more memorable experience, gamification gives you the tools to create something that will engage your students. These five companies understand how games offer students a more customized approach, and they know how to maximize the potential of games to educate better. By following these companies, you are likely to find that your classroom quickly becomes a place of engaged learning.

TagsEdtechedtechchatelearningSTEAMSTEM
Previous Article

Top Tips for Building a Successful EdTech ...

Next Article

10 Ways That Professors Can Use Social ...

Matthew Lynch

Related articles More from author

  • EdTech Futures

    Why Virtual Reality has the Potential to Transform Education as We Know It

    December 26, 2016
    By Matthew Lynch
  • Best of the Best ListsOnline Learning & eLearningPersonalized Learning

    The Tech Edvocate’s List of 20 Must-Follow Elearning Twitter Feeds

    February 5, 2017
    By Matthew Lynch
  • Uncategorized

    How to Choose the Right Digital Learning Device

    July 30, 2017
    By Matthew Lynch
  • EdTech NewsHigher Education EdTech

    Virtual campus: online universities are the future of higher education

    July 25, 2016
    By Matthew Lynch
  • Early Childhood & K-12 EdTech

    Three Signs Your Class Is Suffering from the Digital Divide

    June 14, 2016
    By Matthew Lynch
  • EdTech & InnovationElementary Education

    What is Digital Literacy?

    October 23, 2017
    By Matthew Lynch

2 comments

  1. Peter Ferrero 12 February, 2017 at 19:41 Reply

    Thanks Mathew for the great topic. I have gained a lot from what I have read and for sure I appreciate the efforts of EDtech companies. These firms have brought changes that should be replicated by many other firms in bringing education and technology closer home.

  2. Maria Han 15 February, 2017 at 04:14 Reply

    I have had the good fortune of reading your article regarding gamification in learning. It was well-written and contained sound, practical advice. In fact, I have already benefited from your discussion on what to expect in the near future. You pointed out several things that I will remember for years to come. I look forward to reading your next informative work. Thank you.

Leave a reply Cancel reply

  • Digital LeadershipDigital Literacy

    It’s Never Too Early To Start Teaching Digital Citizenship Skills

  • Early Childhood & K-12 EdTech

    Using Technology For Building a Better School Schedule

  • Adult EducationDigital Age TeachersHigher Education

    A Guide to Digital Credentialing

Search

Login & Registration

  • Register
  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

Newsletter

Signup for The Tech Edvocate Newsletter and have the latest in EdTech news and opinion delivered to your email address!

  • Recent

  • Popular

  • Comments

  • Product Review of Planet Lettra

    By Matthew Lynch
    June 28, 2022
  • Product Review of Prifact

    By Matthew Lynch
    June 28, 2022
  • Product Review of PREto3

    By Matthew Lynch
    June 28, 2022
  • Product Review of Preschool & Kindergarten Games

    By Matthew Lynch
    June 28, 2022
  • Product Review of PraxiSchool

    By Matthew Lynch
    June 28, 2022
  • 20 Top Virtual Reality Apps that are Changing Education

    By Matthew Lynch
    March 11, 2017
  • 7 Ways Technology Is Impacting Modern Education

    By Matthew Lynch
    March 4, 2017
  • Why Mobile Technology Enhances Instruction

    By Matthew Lynch
    December 14, 2016
  • 7 Roles for Artificial Intelligence in Education

    By Matthew Lynch
    May 5, 2018
  • Digital Literacy is the Most Important Lifelong Learning Tool

    By Matthew Lynch
    December 30, 2017
  • The Changing Role of Social Responsibility – Perfect Release
    on
    June 27, 2022

    How to Teach Kids Social Responsibility in a Connected World

    […] Lynch, M. (2018, ...
  • Teaching Early Geometry Concepts – Ask a Tech Teacher
    on
    June 23, 2022

    Teaching Early Geometry Concepts

    […] spend a lot ...
  • Product Review of Counting Bills & Coins – The Tech Edvocate | Gold – Silver – ...
    on
    June 21, 2022

    Product Review of Counting Bills & Coins

    […] Product Review of ...
  • The Edtech Industry Has An Oversaturation Problem - latecareer
    on
    June 20, 2022

    Is the Edtech Industry Flunking Out or Making the Grade?

    […] Lynch at The ...
  • The Edtech Industry Has An Oversaturation Problem - News Badshah
    on
    June 19, 2022

    Is the Edtech Industry Flunking Out or Making the Grade?

    […] Lynch at The ...

EdTech Policy & Reform

  • Curriculum & InstructionEdTech Policy & ReformEducation Leadership

    Why We Should Leave Behind the Cookie-cutter Education

    Spread the loveChange appears to be the only “constant” factor in the educational field. However, what happens when a more significant shift becomes necessary? To provide students with the best ...
  • Adaptive LearningCurriculum & InstructionDigital & Mobile TechnologyDigital Age TeachersEarly Childhood & K-12 EdTechEdTech & InnovationEdTech Policy & ReformInstructional Technology

    Exploring New Ideas: Student-Driven Remote Learning

    Spread the loveRemote learning is taking its toll on our students. They miss the social side of school. Not seeing their classmates or teachers is leading to nervousness, anxiety, and ...
  • Digital & Mobile TechnologyEdTech & InnovationEdTech Policy & Reform

    Implementing Education Technology by Pursuing Technology Education

    Spread the loveTechnology is used for many great things in our world. It’s a powerful tool when used correctly. As such, this powerful tool can be used to transform learning.  ...
  • EdTech Policy & Reform

    How Much Bias Is Okay in Your School?

    Spread the loveThe algorithm has proven itself to be a handy tool when it comes to solving education problems. It’s also not without bias.  You may be wondering how some ...
  • EdTech Policy & ReformFeaturedFresh

    Edtech Should Complement Good Pedagogy, Not Attempt to Replace It

    Spread the loveThe newest generation of edtech is downright amazing; it’s no wonder that various education stakeholders might be a little excited about its potential to transform education. However, edtech ...

EdTech Startups & Businesses

  • EdTech Startups & Businesses

    Edtech Companies Can Learn What Not to Do From Delta Airlines

    Spread the loveIt seems that edtech companies still have a lot to learn about their business models and practices. With that being said, there is a lot they can learn ...
  • Digital LeadershipEdTech Startups & BusinessesProduct Reviews

    Product Review of Collegix

    Spread the love This is a comprehensive ERP solution for colleges and universities that provides modular, totally integrated learners services, finance, HR, and advancement. Collegix provides online and offline workarounds ...
  • Early Childhood & K-12 EdTechEdTech Startups & BusinessesProduct Reviews

    Product Review of Discovery Education

    Spread the love Discovery Education is a big player in EdTech. The company has established itself as the leading provider of digital curriculum resources, digital content, and professional development for ...
  • EdTech Startups & BusinessesProduct Reviews

    Product Review of AptaFund

    Spread the loveAptaFund is a business management software that provides essential functions to educational institutions, such as web access to educators, parents, and learners. It allows elementary schools and other educational ...
  • EdTech Startups & Businesses

    Understanding the Fundamentals of a Sales Script in Your Customer Interaction Journey

    Spread the loveSales scripts are crucial to any business and can be the main difference in achieving the set targets. A well-written sales script that factors in customers from different ...

Digital Equity

  • Digital & Mobile TechnologyDigital EquityDigital Literacy

    Teaching Learners Digital Content Creation Skills

    Spread the loveContent curation is nothing new and has always been a coveted skill. It has been this way for hundreds of years — think of art galleries, museums, or ...
  • Digital & Mobile TechnologyDigital EquityEdTech & Innovation

    Promoting Online Access With Hotspots, Laptops, and Planning

    Spread the loveWhen becoming a leader in the field of education, it is important to consider equity. Some students may not have access to devices or the internet from their ...
  • Digital EquityDigital Leadership

    How Can You Assess the Tech Needs of Your Students Outside of School?

    Spread the loveToday, I received an email from the middle school principal in Los Angeles. She explained to me that the school that she ran was in one of the ...
  • Digital Equity

    It Is Time for the Edtech Industry to Stop Denying Its Equity and Race Problem

    Spread the loveThe EdTech industry is dominated by white employees, white leaders, and white entrepreneurs. If you doubt this statement, just attend an Edtech conference. Admittedly, educators and others don’t ...
  • Digital Equity

    How OER Can Help Overcome the Higher Education Equity Barrier

    Spread the loveThe cornerstone of the American dream is the ability to succeed in life regardless of one’s family of origin. And, for most people, that requires a college education. ...

EdTech Futures

  • Adaptive LearningAssistive TechnologyEdTech FuturesInstructional TechnologyTeachers

    Will AI Replace Teachers?

    Spread the loveThrough the years, robots have taken over many jobs. First, they replaced horses and wagons and horses and plows, then they started to replace people. A few examples ...
  • EdTech FuturesHigher EducationHigher Education EdTechUncategorized

    The Future of Higher Education Must Avoid Returning to the Past

    Spread the loveColleges and universities can make higher education safer, smarter, and more accessible through automation and collaboration technologies – if they commit to it. Author: John Hulen, Director of ...
  • EdTech FuturesOnline Learning & eLearning

    IT Trends To Watch As Higher Education Moves Into a New Decade

    Spread the loveEdtech couldn’t have hoped for a better launch into the new decade than the push the industry received from COVID-19. Even the most tech-resistant institutions and individuals have ...
  • EdTech Futures

    4 Emerging EdTech Trends in 2022

    Spread the loveCovid-19 has not only changed education as we know it, but it has forced education technology (EdTech) to up its game. EdTech has been crucial since the start of this ...
  • Adult EducationEdTech & InnovationEdTech FuturesEducation LeadershipEducational LeadershipHigher EducationHigher Education EdTechThe Future of Education

    Education Technology and the Future of Higher Ed Leadership

    Spread the loveEducation Technology (EdTech) has had a more significant impact on education than anyone expected. Now its effects are reaching into the field of higher education. In this article, ...

About Us

Since technology is not going anywhere and does more good than harm, adapting is the best course of action. That is where The Tech Edvocate comes in. We plan to cover the PreK-12 and Higher Education EdTech sectors and provide our readers with the latest news and opinion on the subject. From time to time, I will invite other voices to weigh in on important issues in EdTech. We hope to provide a well-rounded, multi-faceted look at the past, present, the future of EdTech in the US and internationally.

We started this journey back in June 2016, and we plan to continue it for many more years to come. I hope that you will join us in this discussion of the past, present and future of EdTech and lend your own insight to the issues that are discussed.

Newsletter

Signup for The Tech Edvocate Newsletter and have the latest in EdTech news and opinion delivered to your email address!

Contact Us

The Tech Edvocate
5322 Markel Road, Suite 104
Richmond, VA 23230
(601) 630-5238
[email protected]

Follow us

Copyright © 2022 Matthew Lynch. All rights reserved.