7 Ways to Reward the Brain

It was quite amazing to me to learn that the major games today are measuring one billion points of data per day. This means game designers have an incredible amount of information at their disposal. This data allows designers to tailor games to an appropriate level of challenge, which, in turn, leads to engagement. As an educator, this makes me think how we could be more effective if we had the kind of reliable, informative data that is readily available in the gaming world. What do students get? What don't they get? What is just beyond their grasp? This information takes time, energy, and effort to discern. With electronic games, this kind of data is recorded instantaneously.

I really like the idea of rewarding effort and not punishing failure. It's so important, and yet the current educational system is loath to reward effort and seems to thrive on punishing failure, both by students and teachers.

Something else I take away is the concept of the "reward of uncertainty" that really lights the brain up and engages people. When things can't be predicted, they're exciting. As educators, we should work to infuse our teaching with more of these moments.