Is Education in Nigeria Shaped by Games? — If This Trend Continues?

Recently, important changes are quietly occurring in Nigerian classrooms. Teachers are striving to incorporate innovative game-based learning tools to enhance digital skills. If this trend continues, how will we fare in the future?

1. Today’s News

Source:
TECH FEATURE: Why Sandbox Games Like Minecraft Are Shaping the Future of Education in Nigeria

Summary:

• Nigerian classrooms are starting to use game-based learning tools to enhance digital skills.
• With national and state efforts, thousands of teachers are receiving training to effectively use digital platforms.
• By the beginning of 2025, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) launched a “Digital Education Program”.

2. Consider the Context

These changes stem from a global trend towards technological and digital advancements in education. Specifically, Nigeria has a large youth population, and equipping them with digital skills is of great importance. Now, the use of games for education is gaining popularity as a fun way to learn. How will this trend solidify within the education system, and how will it impact our future?

3. What Will the Future Look Like?

Hypothesis 1 (Sensitive): Game-Based Learning Will Become Commonplace

Games may become widely accepted in the classroom, and children might learn through games inherently. Directly, games will be used as part of the curriculum, making learning more interactive. Consequently, changes in educational approaches will continue, and the role of teachers will shift. Values will also change, with learning possibly becoming a source of joy.

Hypothesis 2 (Optimistic): Digital Education Will Grow Significantly

Digital skills fostered through gaming might create the next generation of innovators. Directly, with children becoming tech-savvy early on, job opportunities in the IT sector will increase. As a result, society will be stronger in digital terms, and global competitiveness will strengthen. Values will also change, and technological innovation may be accepted as the norm.

Hypothesis 3 (Pessimistic): Traditional Education Will Continue to Decline

Game-based learning might replace conventional methods, causing traditional educational techniques to be overlooked. Directly, the importance of textbooks and board writing will diminish, and teachers’ roles will transform. Consequently, methods for imparting knowledge will change, and fears regarding the acquisition of fundamental knowledge may increase. Values will also change, and concerns about a reliance on technology for learning could emerge.

4. Support Tips for Us

Reflective Tips

• Think flexibly about how games can be used as a learning tool.
• Consider how technology can be integrated into everyday life.

Practical Small Tips

• Utilize digital tools in your everyday life.
• Discuss how technology can be applied in education with family or friends.

5. What Actions Will You Take?

• How will you approach game-based learning?
• What are your thoughts on the impact of technology in education?
• How will you balance traditional education with new education?

What kind of future have you envisioned? Please let us know through social media or comments.