There is a common belief that all training must somehow be painful and difficult. The old, “no pain, no gain”, adage of physical training seems to transfer to corporate learning. If it’s fun, it must be frivolous.
It’s as if mention the word, “game” triggers a thought sequence that goes “game = child’s play= not serious = no learning.”
In fact all research reveals that this is the exact opposite of the truth. Adults (like children) learn faster and better through experiential games than through a presentation. Games are a fantastic training tools which can be used at all levels of learning.
However, for games to be effective, they must be seen to be related to the workplace by providing knowledge, reinforcing attitudes, and initiating action that is linked to job success. They must also teach people how to think, access information, react, understand, and create value for themselves and their organizations.
They must be enjoyable and engaging, but without being overly simplistic or silly. Games must also allow for reflection, they must be debriefed.
Games have a strong place in an organisation’s learning environment. They are very effective learning tools for people. Encourage your people to play them. I certainly will…
Read about the Group Games Database Find out about the INSET training I offer to schools