How are “Game Design” and “Instructional Design” similar?
I’ve been learning more about game design and realize it is pretty similar to the different design models that I’ve used in my professional life. Game design and instructional design share several similarities in terms of their approach to creating effective and engaging experiences for their respective audiences.
This blog will share a few ways in which they are similar:
#1 User-Centered Approach
Both game design and instructional design begin with a focus on the end user. Game designers and instructional designers alike consider the needs, interests, and preferences of their audience to create an experience that is engaging, effective, and meaningful.
#2 Goals and Objectives
Both game design and instructional design involve setting clear goals and objectives. In game design, these goals may relate to progressing through levels, earning points, or achieving specific outcomes. In instructional design, goals may be related to learning objectives and competencies.
#3 Feedback and Assessment
Both game design and instructional design rely on feedback and assessment to evaluate the effectiveness of the experience. In games, feedback may come in the form of points, rankings, or achievements. In instructional design, feedback is often provided through assessments, quizzes, or other evaluation tools.
#4 Engagement and Motivation
Both game design and instructional design strive to create engaging experiences that motivate their users to continue participating. Game designers use various tactics such as rewards, challenges, and competition to keep players engaged. Instructional designers use similar strategies, such as interactive activities, simulations, and storytelling, to keep learners engaged and motivated.
Overall, game design and instructional design share a similar goal of creating engaging and effective experiences for their respective audiences. While the end result may look quite different, the processes used by designers in both fields are often quite similar.
