More Play = More Learning

Gimkit

@LisaBerghoff

There is no doubt that playing games makes learning more fun, increases engagement, and can help students feel more connected in class. There are lots of online tools designed to help educators manage lessons and track student achievements while students are practicing problem-solving and collaboration skills. Gimkit definitely rises to the top when the online tools are put to the test. 

What is Gimkit?

Gimkit is a classroom game-show platform where students compete by answering questions. Yes, it is similar to Kahoot, but different. Throughout a "kit", students answer questions on their own devices at their own pace. Each student gets exposure to the questions multiple times to ensure mastery. They earn in-game cash by answering questions correctly. Student can then reinvest their money by purchasing upgrades and power-ups. Of course, these can all be adjusted by the teacher in the settings. 

What's New And Different About Gimkit?

• There are actually over 10 unique game modes so there is always a new way for students to play. 
• Gimkit can be assigned for homework and done individually.
• KitCollab allows students to create questions for the game!
• Creative mode allows students to create their own game modes, maps, and worlds

How To Get Started:

1. Go to Gimkit.com and click New Kit. You will name your kit, choose what language you want students to use, and a subject. 
2. You can choose or add an image that will represent your kit, making it easier for your students to recognize.
3. Choose: 
1. Add Question: Add a multiple choice or a text input question. You can add images, audio, and equations for support. 
2. Create With Flashcards: Make or import flashcards (great alternative to Quizlet) You can also import directly from Flashcard Factory- by Pear Deck
3. Collaborate with KitCollab: Share the link with your students and have them create questions. Great for review!
4. Add From Question Bank: Access kits that have been created by others.
5. Import From Spreadsheet: Quick way to add questions. Add them in a spreadsheet and then import them into Gimkit.

After you make your game- called a Kit, click done and then decide if you will play it live or for homework. You will then choose the type of game you want your students to play. The game types will vary depending on if you are playing live or asynchronously. You will also set the parameters. You can also decide if you want it to be teacher or student-paced. 

You Don't Have To Make A Kit!

Want your students to play but don't want to make a kit? You can have them play "this or that". In this game, you say the questions out loud and the students choose the red or the blue side. You get to decide who gets the points!

Once your games are done, you can pull reports, copy your kit, create folders so you can keep track of all the games you are using for your classes, and more.

I highly encourage you to give Gimkit a try!

Want some help getting started? Feel free to contact me. I'm happy to help.