Video games can foster student engagement in the classroom
Video games can foster student engagement in the classroom
Video games can foster student engagement in the classroom
Briana Mendez-Padilla
August, 20, 2025
Summary
Incorporating video games into K-12 classrooms can boost student engagement and foster learner-centered environments, says William Watson of Purdue University. With 85% of U.S. teens playing video games—many daily—Watson argues that leveraging this familiarity can enhance learning. He recommends aligning games with learning goals, using narrative-based games, and even substituting with board games when needed. Games promote more on-task time than traditional methods, and students can extend learning by creating alternate storylines or using game worlds for creative assignments. Collaboration and persistence are key, and while games are powerful tools, Watson emphasizes they should serve as a starting point—not the end goal.
Reference
Mendez-Padilla, B. (2025, August 20). Video games can foster student engagement in the classroom. K-12 Dive. https://www.k12dive.com/news/video-games-student-engagement-classroom/758160/