Learning with online gaming

Creating games

Creating and playing online games can help children and young people develop important skills like coding, problem solving and creativity.

Online games are popular with young people. A survey of over 5500 Australian high school students found 74% play games online. The Office of the eSafety Commissioner reports that 89% of young people played games online in the past year.

With this in mind, it's no surprise that many young people are also considering making their own video games.

Creating online games can be an opportunity for students to learn important science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills. There are game design competitions that are open to students in years 3-12, such as the Australian STEM Video Game Challenge.

Game for students in years 3-4

With the Robo Raven and the Ancient Relics game, students complete a series of online safety challenges to defeat the Robo Raven and restore the internet to a safe and positive place for everyone. Teacher notes, student worksheet, complettion certificate and parent information sheet are available.

Learning coding

• The department's Crack the Code is a unit of work that develops knowledge, skills and understanding of coding for students in years 7-12. 
• Learn how you can use Microsoft MakeCode Arcade to teach your students how to code and build a game online with this video from Cybermarvel.

Technology for learning teacher resources

Technology for Learning supports schools with the teaching and learning of ICT skills in NSW schools. You can check out their events, teaching and learning resources and publications.