Gaming tools add edge to e-learning

Noida-based FCS Software Solutions, an infotech solutions company, has incorporated interactive gaming concepts to provide fun solutions and actively engage its e-learning clients in the UK, US and India.

"Companies are relying more and more on e-learning to upskill their human resources and enhance productivity. As much as 60 per cent of corporate training in the US and UK is being done via e-learning today. So it is very important to involve gaming concepts to make e-learning more effective," Vineet Narang, vice-president, FCS Strategic Planning and Business Development, said.

Gaming in e-learning is now focusing more on fun and reinforcement of knowledge during the game.

"FCS is not just retaining the fun element of gaming but is also using it for imparting or reinforcing knowledge," Narang said. "No longer is it a game of showing images with animated text, we now have more engaging learning modules," he added.

FCS uses images and environment, instead of animation or sketches, to avoid a very raw, immature look and feel which makes learners identify with modules and capture their interest.

According to Sabina Rahman, creative director, FCS, the use of games as one of the mediums for reinforcing and testing knowledge gives the learner a fun ambiance, plus an inquisitiveness to attempt the game. It draws the learner's mindspace and interest, thereby justifying the purpose of having the online learning module.

At times, corporate employees are imparted training on soft skills, like problem-solving, negotiations, relationship building, which can be taught only by the means of certain interactive tools and exercises.

"Once we give these tools and exercise the shape of a game, it draws the complete interest of the learner. We provide interactive intros and animation along with rollover information and have customised engines to meet rising customer expectations," Brahman said.