Because gaming is a hot topic, I wanted to explore it in school libraries. Much discussion has focused on gaming in academic libraries (see Paul Waelchli’s blog and chart that matches the ACRL standards with 3 video games), so the blogging about school library gaming has been a welcome addition. When initially learning about this service/issue, I wondered what gaming had to do with libraries and learning. After investigating more, the idea of using board games as learning tools in school libraries has become more appealing.
Renee recently mentioned Brian Mayer’s post linking board games to the NY State Standards. It caught my attention because when a tool/process/curriculum is linked to state standards, educators and administrators will take notice. He has connected different board games to social studies, language arts, math, science & technology, and other subjects. Brian, a Library Technology Specialist for a school library system in western NY, makes the case for board games by arguing that they reinforce classroom learning as well as social skills like teamwork. Brian’s entire blog, Library Gamer, is very useful because he discusses and reviews board games that are appropriate for school libraries, and includes very cool pictures of the games themselves.
More resources mentioned on the wonderful Shifted Librarian blog about how to teach games and integrating lesson plans & games can be found at Mayfair Games. I plan to continue learning about gaming in school libraries and its potential for reinforcing learning.
“Brian, a Library Technology Specialist for a school library system in western NY, makes the case for board games by arguing that they reinforce classroom learning as well as social skills like teamwork.”
The high school I work at will be having a gaming week and I’m sure I’ll have to justify board games in the library that week to at least one teacher. Thanks for the post, I will definitely have to check out Brian’s Blog.
Comment by ashleylynn42 — March 28, 2008 @ 10:43 pm