GAME-BASED LEARNING IN EDUCATION

Later, we discussed about gamification and game- based learning (GBL). Gamification is the application of game-design elements and game principles in non-game contexts. Learning through GBL and games can significantly enhance good quality and effectiveness of education. Skills such as multitasking, critical thinking, risk taking and other 21st century skills can be developed in game-based environments.

DAY 3: AMERICAN CORNER AND TECHLAB

Good morning from sunny Corfú!!

Today the course began with a guided city tour. Kerkyra, the greek name of the capital, is absolutely beautiful. Due to being under Venetian rule from the 14th century to the late 18th century, Venetian architecture can still be found on this island.

Between the Old Town and the old fortress is the esplanade, a long green square that is a remnant of the Venetian fortifications in the 17th century. The Liston, on the Esplanade’s western boundary is an elegant arcade, also from the French period and designed in the style of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

After the intense walking tour through the old town, we discussed about urban games and their application to educational field.

Finally, we could enjoy a traditional Greek meal all together. Enjoy your meal!! καλή όρεξη!!

DAY 5: LARP

Another sunny day from Corfú!! The main topic of the day was LARP. A live action role-playing game (LARP) is a form of role-playing game where the participants physically portray their characters. The players pursue goals within a fictional setting represented by the real world while interacting with each other in character. The outcome of player actions may be mediated by game rules or determined by consensus among players.

Once we knew the whole theory, each of us dressed up to enjoy the practice. So it was how we became true Greek Gods: Dionysus, Aphrodite, Hades ...

DAY 6: ESCAPE ROOMS IN THE CLASSROOM

After a great cup of coffee the theory began. To be honest, starting the day with this wonderful sun gives you another perspective. Today's theory raised us the use of escape rooms in the classroom. An escape room, also known as "an escape game" is a lived-action team-based game where players cooperatively discover clues, solve puzzles and accomplish tasks in one or more rooms in order to progress in a limited amount of time.

But how do escape rooms improve team work?

• The teamwork improves communication. What's more, the team must collaborate, transmit and process information efficiently and instantaneously.

• It gives everyone the opportunity to open up and share their ideas with the group.

• By cooperating, hostilities are left behind and relationships are formed based on a shared experience.

• Escape rooms often have riddles that are solved creatively or through lateral thinking.

and... suddenly, the teacher arrived with some suspicious glasses for us... That's how we become players, since we had just been poisoned!!!

DAY 7: CULTURAL VISITS

The end of this incredible experience had come and with great sadness I have to say goodbye to my beloved Corfú.