iPad Games Based Learning

What are your initial thoughts about using iPad games for education? 

My initial thoughts are that using iPad games for education would have advantages for learners because they engage learners in an educational task, particularly reluctant learners. We know that play based learning is active learning and that play is the basis of children’s learning. It allows for learning to occur naturally at the developmental stage that is correct for the individual child. I believe that if learning experiences are presented in an irresistible way such as games, children will participate enthusiastically in the learning activity. Games allow for mistakes so learning is safe and non-threatening for the learner. The complexity of the games’ tasks increase as the learner works through challenges within the game, thus maintaining motivation for the learner. Play based learning through games should not replace traditional targeted teaching but instead compliment, reinforce and enhance learning. The issue is to select appropriate games as well as balance the use of games to achieve the desired educational outcomes as per curriculum requirements.