Playing to learn : the use of Maltazur (a geographical game) in order to promote map literacy among school children

Abstract

The hypothesis of our study was that children learn through the playing of games. Games can be defined as contests (play) among adversaries operating under constraints (rules) for an objective (winning). Play is children's work and a way to express ideas and emotions. We observed the types of games children play and the extent of competition and co operation involved in these games. We believe that games play an important role in determining classroom approaches to fresh ideas. Our aim is to evaluate their games and devise our Geographical boardgame Maltaiur. Games are models of real life situations whose function should be to intensify human experience in ways that are relatively safe, even while they provide excitement. Games should serve as means not as an end, that is a springboard for further learning. We are devising this board game which can be used in the classroom in various lessons dealing with spatial skills in geography and environmental awareness.