The video game I decided to explore was actually an application that can be downloaded on all types of devices. I downloaded it to my phone, but it can easily be set up for children to use through Ipads during center time, etc. The application is called Khan Academy Kids. Throughout my own education, my teachers have always recommended Khan Academy to explore new ways of learning or simply to grasp a concept better. Of course this was in my high school years because that’s when technology in the classroom really began to take off.

Khan Academy was created in 2008 by founder Salman Khan in Mountain View, California. It is a non-profit educational organization. The goal of Khan academy is provide world class education to anyone, anywhere.

Because this company is very reliable & highly recommended by educators, I figured their children’s educational app would be a good place to find high quality gaming.

To begin, the app opens asking the parent to provide an email address. Then after the email is confirmed the app asks that parent their child’s name, age and to pick an avatar. After this – you are brought to the kids clubhouse where you get to meet all of the characters in the game. There is one character who helps guide you throughout the simulation of the game. Throughout the clubhouse you are able to use skills such as counting, adding, listening and responding, sorting etc. Once you complete tasks you are rewarded with new items for your friends in the clubhouse. Every time you are awarded a new item, the next time you play it is a new topic to learn about (colors, numbers, orders, opposites).The games are never repeated and always give the player options, so it is always holding their attention.

It is important to let the child customize and chose their pathway in simulation games – it gives them a sense of individuality & engages their interests. It also helps them figure out their learning style. (Gee, 31). Since this game gives the option to chose an age level this means it is pleasantly frustrating – which according to Vygotsky’s theory of Zone of Proximal Development is what you want to aim for with your students. Not too easy but not too challenging.

I have not yet been able to explore every level to the game but below are just some activities the children are asked to complete with the help of the characters in the game!

https://www.khanacademy.org/kids?from=lohp