Reflections from Games Based Learning 2010 (#GBL10) – 6 of 10 Land of Me

One of the big things coming from the 2010 Games Based Learning Conference was the power of narrative and the importance of story telling in education. James Huggins, Managing Director from Made in Me did a fantastic presentation on his companies new creation ‘Land of Me’. I have to be honest I was completely blown away by the quality of the finished product but in particular the thought and detailed research that had gone into getting it just right.

The Land of Me is a new world of interactive games for children aged 2 and up. Each chapter has been designed to inspire creativity and playful learning but you’ll probably be having too much fun to notice!

It really is beautifully designed and the story chapters contain well developed characters such as Eric the Raccoon, Willow the Owl and Buddy Boo the Bear. The chapters are also full of mystery to allow lots of open ended direction and discussion between children, parents and teachers.

Each chapter also has a more clearly defined learning objective such as:

• Shape, Size & Colour
• The World Outside
• Making Things
• Rhythm and Dance
• Songs and Rhythms
• Story Time

The world is explored by a really cool interactive map and James and the team have plans to introduce more chapters, stories and adventures over time.

 

Watch James’s presentation from Games Based learning below – before you watch it I think it’s really important to emphasize that James doesn’t give a sales pitch. He just wonderfully describes why stories and open ended imagination are so important within a modern education system!

Comments

[Hilery Williams]

Ollie
I approached this with some trepidation. I am, after all, one of those 'old grandmothers' sitting with little ones on her knee reading endless stories! I believe many small children spend too much time in front of a screen and not enough time interacting with people, although I don’t think anyone could question my commitment to the use of digital technologies where ever appropriate.
Whether or not to use digital technologies as yet another electronic baby-sitter for pre-schoolers (and this happens) is the decision of parents of course. It is well documented that many children arrive in early years settings with a tragic paucity of language experience which is often exacerbated by the ubiquitous screen. It would be a shame if this software were deployed to keep them quiet.
However, having seen this video, I am on my way to being converted. If used in the way James envisages, then it seems to be a lovely tool for youngsters to make the transition from situational to symbolic learning which is so hard for some. The emphasis on interaction and physical activity directly related to the story on screen is very welcome.
That the ‘Land of Me’ is a terrific vehicle for creativity, collaboration and communication I have no doubt – when used in the way that is intended.
I am passionate about the power of story to enable us all to lead fuller, richer lives and am looking forward to trying this out with the 6 and 2 year old in my life.
Thank you.

[Ollie Bray]

I think that this has the potential to be a very special product Hilery - I'm looking forwrd to getting my hands on the beta version later this month. See you soon. OB