Beyond the Digital: Analogue Games´ Creative Potential in Deepening Data Literacy

Abstract

: In an era where digital technology often dominates the educational landscape, the enduring appeal and educational potential of analogue learning games remain significant. These traditional, non-digital games, offer a tactile and interactive approach to learning that is both unique and impactful. Unlike their digital counterparts, analogue games require physical presence and direct interaction, which bring benefits to the educational process (Ribeiro, 2019; Medeisiene et al., 2021).  This small case study explores, through a sociocultural lens, how analogue learning games influence creative learning processes in Continuing Education students. The results of a questionnaire to 43 participants enrolled in a course on Data Literacy in Norway, show that analogue learning games promote active engagement, foster social interaction, and stimulate innovative thinking connected to the course content when the setting around the activity feels safe for the participants. Participants also expressed that the tactile and social nature of analogue games encouraged more profound group discussions, leading to diverse perspectives and novel ideas. This resonates with findings from Medeisiene et al. (2021) who highlight the pedagogical value of game-based learning in enhancing engagement. These interactions not only bolstered creativity but also enhanced and deepened understanding and retention of knowledge from the Data Literacy course content. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of context and facilitation in maximising the benefits of analogue games for Continuing Education students. The findings suggest a promising avenue for further exploration into using analogue games in educational contexts. The study concludes with advocating conducting more research on the integration of learning games into continuing education curricula as a strategy to leverage the benefits of social interaction and active engagement, and to enhance creative learning that can deepen learning of course content.