Wonder, Author at Student Edge

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Gamification in education

Not to be mistaken with Esports, gamification in education is all about applying gaming dynamics in the classroom to improve learning and enhance students’ skills and performance.

In fact, it helps instil crucial skills such as collaboration, critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Plus, it fosters engagement, increases motivation and interest in certain subjects and offers immediate feedback to pupils.

Curious to learn more? Read on!

The neuroscience behind gamification in education

What makes gamification so effective? The answer is in neuroscience. Several experts have studied gaming systems applied to different fields – from learning to business training.

As a result, researchers have proven that brain-wise, gamification increases a feeling of motivation and enjoyment through dopamine release and hippocampus stimulation.

As for the benefits of gamification in the classroom, there are plenty. Firstly, playing keeps the brain healthy by training memory and attention and preventing cognitive decline. Secondly, it relies on emotions, which makes learning retention more effective. Finally, gamification’s storytelling-dynamic helps students process information without boring them with lists of notions.

Learn how to gamify your classroom

Now that you know a little more about how gamification works, let’s put it into practice. Here are some basic strategies to help you out.

Set up a point system and start assigning points for completing tasks

If integrated with class activities, point systems allow students to visualise their progress and encourage their motivation!

Promote healthy competition with leaderboards

Creating competition among peers is a great way to improve performance. What’s more, you can create more than one leaderboard based on different achievements.

By doing so, you will promote various types of skills and make things more inclusive for all students.

Assign badges & awards

Reward-based systems are excellent to show your class that you value effort and hard work. For instance, you can create a criterion based on points and assign badges. Or even term-end awards.

Create a mission with an objective

Unleash your creativity! Use apps like Google Slides and create a quest where students need to unlock objectives to move forward. For example, you can create a cross-curricular mission that includes Maths, reading and science, and put a badge on the line!

Go full boss mode

As classic video games taught us, every level ends with a boss battle. So, are you ready to take up the mantle at the end of point 4’s quest? Prepare a list of more challenging questions and ask your students to answer with a time limit. You can even split your pupils into teams and let them cooperate to win.

What’s your take on gamification?

If you have any previous experience with gamified learning, let us know on our social media and Teachers Community.

Finally, don’t forget that you don’t need to necessarily invest in third-party software to help you out with your gamification project. For instance, you can use Google apps like Classroom, Forms or Read Aloud paired with your Acer Chromebook!

Would you like to learn more about Acer devices and solutions for schools? Get in touch with our EdTech experts: acerforeducation.emea@acer.com

BY Wonder December 13, 2022

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Esports in Education- Time To Look Ahead

The popularity of Esports grew continuously throughout the global pandemic. Gaming was one of the engaging new ways to keep kids connected to their peers while being forced to remain at home.

In 2021, the population of gamers reached 3 billion worldwide with a 5.3% YoY.

Source: Newzoo

And the Esports market climbed from 1,215 million to 1,823 million during the pandemic period of 2020-2021. (See table below)

The growth indicated in these figures demonstrates how the gaming industry is just waiting for new talent right outside school gates!

Source: Acumen Research and Consulting

Why Esports Matters: BETT 2022

Although some teachers remain doubtful and hesitant, many education experts and pioneers have already implemented Electronic sports in schools. The British Esports Association (BEA) worked with one of the biggest education publishers, Pearson, to develop an entire UK standard Esports curriculum and introduced it to various institutions.

Thanks to its exponential growth in the educational field, electronic sports is currently one of the focus themes of the British Educational Training and Technology Show (BETT) – starting from this year’s edition. With exclusive content speeches from experts, accounts of hands-on experience and live tournaments, the Esports Hub in BETT 2022 successfully caught the attention of many educators interested in the benefits of gaming in education.

F.A.Q. at BETT 2022

The teamwork and enthusiasm on full display during the BETT tournament impressed attending educators. But many teachers still had inquiries and doubts. Here’s a collection of frequently asked questions, answered by James Fraser-Murison – one of the best first-line Esports educators.

Question 1: Is Esports education only for professional players?

Similar to traditional sports, only around 2% of Esports players advance to the point of becoming professionals. Nevertheless, this growing industry offers an assortment of other professional roles, such as agency, media and health managers. Take a closer look at this overview of opportunities in the Electronic sports industry:

Question 2: What are the exact benefits of Esports education?

“All these skills are needed for the opportunities around the industry, and they can be developed through Electronic sports education”, James said.

Here are the top 5 benefits online sports education brings to students:

Find the full keynote deck from James Fraser-Murison here.

Why Esports should be in schools

Electronic sports can be the ideal gateway for learning many 21st-century skills like coding, computing thinking and decision making. It’s also essential for developing such soft skills as communication and teamwork.

To prepare for tomorrow’s challenging, fast-changing world, today’s kids must build their confidence and create solid interpersonal connections.

Source: Section 28, Government Response to the Digital, Culture, Media & Sports Selection Committee Report on Immersive and Addictive Technologies, published 8 June 2020

The key to socialisation – one of the greatest benefits of Esports education – lies with communication and development of teamwork skills. So why not change up today by implementing Electronic sports education? You and your students will enjoy the ride!

First steps for Building your own Esports school program

As seen in the experiences shared at the BETT show and BEA and Pearson’s curriculum, a successful Esports journey begins with creating a proper Electronic sports environment where both teachers and students can thrive.

Although we know the early stages can look challenging, educators need only focus on content and activities while setting up the hardware!

Level up Electronic Sports Education with Acer

Acer is fully committed to helping schools start their Esports adventure with top-quality, service-ready solutions. As for equipment, Acer stands out with a comprehensive Esports portfolio, including laptops, desktops, monitors and peripherals.

Whenever schools need a place to schedule activities, build Esports teams, or host tournaments, our free-to-use platform, PLANET9, is at their service!

Before you go, don’t forget to download our exclusive Esports education starter package here!

More info? Join Acer Teachers Community & Academy to access our webinar library and training materials on Electronic sports and a wide range of other topics!

Got questions? Let our team help you kick off your Esports journey: acerforeducation.emea@acer.com

BY Wonder December 13, 2022

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Digital Literacy- Why it is Important

Digital literacy has become imperative in today’s society. In an increasingly digitalized world, technology offers tremendous opportunities in almost every aspect of life. This form of literacy is required to take full advantage of these opportunities.

So it’s no surprise that these literacy skills are essential when preparing students for the future. Read on for a deeper insight into what it is and how to assess it in the classroom.

What is digital literacy in education?

In general terms, digital literacy refers to an individual’s capacity to understand, use and evaluate information in a society steered by digital technologies. These skills apply across the board in conjunction with the use of devices – from PCs to smartphones and tablets — that connect to the internet.

When students become digital citizens, they learn to analyse, apply and evaluate online information while coming to understand the importance of their own digital footprint.

Why is digital literacy important?

Digital literacy is not a synonym for IT proficiency. It is a specific understanding of technology that mixes digital tool knowledge with critical thinking and social engagement.

By building this literacy, teachers lay the foundations for students to fully embrace and understand these tools and online resources – in both learning and everyday life.

The main digital literacy skills for students

Digital literacy encompasses several skills that teachers can foster in the classroom. We spotlight a few of them here:

1 - Information literacy and critical thinking

The internet has become the primary source of information for almost everyone, from children to adults. Therefore, pupils must be taught how to analyse and evaluate the information they encounter.

First, students must learn to distinguish between relevant information and misinformation or fake news. Secondly, they must find their own patterns and connections to elaborate content and put it into practice. Only then will they be able to apply what they’ve learned in the real world.

Moreover, it’s crucial for teachers to underline the ethical use of resources. Students must learn to report sources and not copy/paste online material, just as they shouldn’t from textbooks.

2 - Understanding the digital footprint

Everything shared online – especially on social media – becomes part of an individual’s digital footprint. This includes photos, media, cookies, browsing history, passwords, etc.

Because they spend so much time online, youngsters may not always consider the implications of what they share. Within the context of literacy in this regard, this topic should be discussed with your class. In particular, the importance of cybersecurity should be highlighted – especially regarding sharing personal data or recognising scams, fake ads or fraud.

3 - Cultural and social understanding

Since its inception, the internet has been a vital space to express diversity. It is also a powerful amplification tool to spread not only positivity but also negativity and hate.

Therefore, seek to instil in students a respect for inclusivity and to discourage any form of cyberbullying.

How to teach, assess and improve digital literacy

Learning-by-doing is perhaps the best way to develop digital literacy. Through practical lessons, help your students to surf the web and collect information. Assign tasks that include the use of online tools and research. Point out positive and negative examples of what we have discussed above, and encourage an attitude of “practice makes perfect!“

Be aware that digital natives can be precociously tech-savvy without fully maturing into digital citizens. It’s up to mentors to help them to develop this literacy to prepare them for the future.

Find the best devices for your school with Acer

Would you like to upgrade your school tech to be up-to-date with the latest EdTech trends?

Contact our Team and find the best solution for your needs: acerforeducation.emea@acer.com

BY Wonder December 13, 2022

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10 Essential Computer Maintenance Tips

Basic computer maintenance can extend a PC’s lifespan by 5-8 years. That’s why cleaning a computer’s hardware, and software is vital – and smart!

Regular cleaning keeps your school’s and personal PCs running smoothly and helps prevent costly assistance. So why wait?

Author and digital marketer Robert Stark has shared with Acer 10 Essential Computer Maintenance Tips for PCs. Let’s take a look.

1 - Clean your keyboard regularly

How to clean your dirty and dusty keyboard? Did you know that a PC keys can be 20,000 times dirtier than a toilet seat? The best way to clean a keyboard is using a damp, lint-free cloth. A quick weekly wipe is enough to restore cleanliness and peace of mind!

Hard to press or sticky keys are likely clogged with dust, dirt or debris. In this case, compressed air is the solution. How to proceed?

Turn your laptop off and unplug USB and power plugs.
Turn the laptop upside down and gently tap its underside to dislodge any debris.
Return the laptop to its original position and spray compressed air between keys from a distance of about 1-inch.
Spray in short bursts moving from one side of the keyboard to the other and back again, if necessary.

2 - Keep cables organised

Ever noticed how cables seem to have a talent for tangling and mixing up? We’ve all been there. Thankfully, there are various solutions.

Organize cords by type, grouping them with zip ties. If they are particularly numerous, try labelling cords so you know what each is for at a glance. You might even decide that a PC cable management system, such as a cable box, is suitable for you!

3 - Wipe down your computer monitor

How many times do you and your students point at your laptop screen during class? You’re probably asking yourself how to wipe a computer monitor to remove fingertips. The answer is a lint-free microfiber cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.

Never use bleach or hash chemicals of any kind. Avoid using a circular motion when you clean. Long, gentle side-to-side or top-to-bottom strokes are best. And to avoid screen damage, never apply pressure!

4 - Tips to maximise computer battery life

Looking to optimize your battery’s lifespan? Avoid the common mistake of keeping it constantly under charge! Lithium-ion batteries last longer operating at a charge of 20-80% – so always unplug the charger when you reach 100%.

Also note that when a device is in storage, the battery drains… and can be damaged if it sits unused for long periods. So if you don’t plan to use your device for over a month, it’s best to unplug it – even though the best practice would be to charge the battery from time to time during lengthy storage periods.

Finally, be sure to remove the battery if the laptop is constantly plugged in.

Note: New laptops should be charged for over 24 hours before the first use!

5 - Run antivirus and malware scans regularly

Malware, viruses, and cyber threats can seriously damage your devices – particularly in schools. Running regular scans with good antivirus products will save you from ransomware, data loss, performance issues and headaches!

We recommend well-reviewed antivirus software such as the Norton Security Ultra or Microsoft Defender Antivirus – a valuable built-in option for Windows OS.

6 - Purge your system of junk files & programs

Finding your PC unusually sluggish? Then it’s time to get rid of junk files and unused programs to free up hard drive space and improve performance!

The first step would be manually uninstalling unused programs from your Control Panel then emptying the recycle bin. Secondly, remove browser cookies and empty your cache. Thirdly, you can run disk cleanup software such as CCLeaner and delete temporary files with Windows Disk Cleanup.

7 - Defragment the computer hard drive

Disk cleanup isn’t always enough. Next on your computer maintenance checklist is defragmentation to restore speed.

Adding and removing files can cause your hard drive to become fragmented, thereby spreading out files. In this event, the hard drive must work harder to access the files, resulting in a computer slowdown. The advantages of disk defragmentation are speeding up access again by rearranging and compacting files.

SSD drives don’t require defragmenting so much as older hard disks. However, the Windows Defrag Tool has you covered with both drive types!

Follow these simple steps to defragment your hard disk:

Type “defrag” into the Windows taskbar search and choose Defragment and Optimize Drives.
Select the drive to defragment and click Optimize.
Set a regular defrag schedule – daily, weekly, or monthly – via Select Change settings.

We recommend defragging your hard drive at least once a month.

8 - Keep your computer cool

When a PC’s heat-dissipating cooling system malfunctions, the device can overheat, leading to crashes, slowdowns and other problems. The first defence against PC overheating is the fan. Make sure it’s working correctly, and remove dust using compressed air. These devices require adequate ventilation. The objective is to keep your CPU cool. Heavy programs such as games can use much CPU power, often overheating.

Pay attention to where you use your laptop! The portability of our devices means they can follow us onto the sofa or even into bed, but such surfaces can block vents. Keep in mind that flat, hard surfaces are your best bet. Try to keep at least two inches of free space on both sides of your device, avoid direct sunlight and always store in a cool, dry place.

9 - Update Windows OS and programs

The benefits of updating your PC software include improved security and performance.

The safest way to get driver updates in Windows OS is through the handy Windows Update. We also suggest installing the latest Acer driver software and firmware.

10 - Backup your data

Here’s the final step of your computer cleaning routine. One of the most common best practices for files such as assignments, student information, databases and legal papers is backing up data.

Cloud services such as Google Drive or OneDrive keep data safely stored off your computer. Those who prefer hardware can opt for a USB drive or external hard disk.

We hope you use this helpful information to improve the lifespan of your devices – a laptop or a desktop – and we encourage you to share these tips and best practices with your colleagues and students!

Source: 10 Essential Computer Maintenance Tips for Your PC (2022) | Acer Corner

Find the best devices for your school with Acer

Would you like to upgrade your school tech to be up-to-date with the latest EdTech trends?

Contact our Team and find the best solution for your needs: acerforeducation.emea@acer.com

BY Wonder December 13, 2022