Board Game Education
On this page, we aim to compile the writings that form the theoretical foundation of the entire website.
While practical tips will not be neglected, we will spend more time delving into the thoughts that serve as the starting point for specific topics and games.
Some seek quick assistance, but others are intrigued by what lies behind; these writings are crafted for the latter.
We believe it is worthwhile to read them, but at the very least, we recommend skimming through.
Let's begin by exploring what Jesztl József and I consider the fundamental principles of board game education.
These are our principles, not certainties. We believe that there are many other valid paths. These work for us, and we can build our practical work upon them. We have been fortunate to see that these thoughts have inspired many, but in every case, we emphasize that it's not about adopting them verbatim, but rather adapting them to one's own context.
Let the game remain a game
The game has its own structure, its own dynamism, which board game education utilizes. Therefore, we don't interrupt the game to talk about it, we don't turn it into a mathematical example to create a deliberate learning situation. We start the game, play it, finish it, and expect the impact to come from this, but not within an hour and not the next day.
Board Games
We typically use not specifically educational games, but rather choose from commercially available or homemade games that provide a richer gaming experience, in line with our pedagogical objectives. These are Games with a capital G: extensively tested, and proven to be enjoyable that children naturally want to play. This leads directly to building on intrinsic motivation.
One characteristic of board games, in contrast to abstract board games, is that they don't have a predictably optimal move; instead, they have the best possible move. The role of multiple players, various mechanisms, and luck is crucial in this matter. Therefore, solving decision situations, planning, and executing plans—the essence of the game—provide much more complex developmental opportunities. Board game education, however, does not exclude the use of traditional board games; it just considers them insufficient if we exclusively delve into them.
Teacher and parental roles
Board game education navigates between two extremes: free play and guided play. Typically leaning towards the latter, it's crucial to highlight that it is the game itself—the rules, the mechanics, the inherent regularities—that directs, not the educator or parent. As adults, the task is to provide a selection of board games, offer recommendations, motivate, all while keeping in mind the importance of individual decision-making and autonomy. Therefore, we provide choices for the child or young person, allowing them to decide on the game based on their interests, preferences, and knowledge.
The recommended role is that of a partner and participant. Building primarily on the developmental effects of board games, adults should step back and actively participate in the process as players, avoiding direct educational comments. As players, we naturally have the opportunity to shape the situation, set an example with our decisions and behavior, and it is worth taking advantage of this opportunity.
Goals
The goal of board game education is not to delve deep into individual games; rather, it contemplates presenting a variety of games and game mechanics. This also means that adults can effectively operate within this framework only if they possess a broad knowledge of games and actively participate in numerous gaming experiences themselves.
We believe that this approach alleviates a significant burden for both parents and educators, as the expectation is not to be professional players, but to be familiar with a wide range of games and create diverse gaming situations. We are not preparing for a board game world championship; we are simply playing.
The realm of deep immersion is reserved for talent development and training. In catering to the need for deep immersion, board game education plays a guiding and directing role. The child's strengths and possibilities must be connected with the opportunities in their immediate environment.
While the natural environment for board game education is not the formal classroom, this does not exclude its presence in public educational institutions. Individual games may be brought into the classroom, but due to their nature, the more open atmosphere and flexible time frame of after-school activities or extracurricular programs provide a more suitable environment for board game education to function not only periodically but also on a project basis.
The Educational Power of Board Games
The above principles essentially give rise to an attitude that helps find answers to numerous questions. In the following, I aim to explore topics that emerge from the most frequently asked questions I receive during training sessions and discussions.
Rules Explanation
This is the foundation of everything. Without a good rules explanation, there is no good game. I find that many people find it difficult and are afraid of it, but if we pay attention to a few simple steps, we can easily get the hang of it.
The beginnings
Many often approach me, unsure of where to begin their journey into board gaming. While there are numerous paths and what works can vary, I've gathered a few potential answers here.
How to Build?
In short: from simple to complex. The answer is not surprising, but it requires a bit of game knowledge. You don't have to be an expert to see the connections between different games; over time, everyone gets the hang of it. Once you look at a few examples, you'll see exactly how easy it is to navigate these paths: from the simplest game structures to the truly deep ones.
Board Gaming in Older Age
Discover the advantages of board gaming for seniors, including cognitive benefits and enhanced social interactions. Explore recommended board games for older players and learn how they can bring quality to intergenerational relationships.
Development Areas
What can be developed with board games? Probably anything. Once, for example, I went through key competencies and looked for games for each one. But if we want to understand the developmental opportunities inherent in board games, the best way is to analyze specific games in detail. If one does this a few times, their eye becomes attuned, and they can easily find board games that suit their pedagogical goals.
Should we let the child win?
If possible, try not to. There are so many other paths that are more beautiful and beneficial. The most beautiful and beneficial among them is the act of giving advantages, which is truly worth delving into because extraordinary things can be found within it.
Stories
I often answer questions with stories, and in 2023, I compiled my favorites into a little booklet. Now, they are also available in English. I feel these stories succinctly convey what can only be explained at length and tediously.
Presence
Explore the importance of genuine presence in board gaming. Discover how being fully engaged can transform both the educational value and personal connections forged through play.