Theory of Learning in Games

Learning can be fun and games.

Benjamin Bloom, known best for his taxonomy theory, set the groundwork for student learning theory by isolating the various types of learning. The theories of learning, according to Bloom, include peer and mentor tutoring. Learning through games is also a prominent education theory.

Identification

Game theory uses mathematics to study and predict human behavior in specific situations. The traditional theory of learning in non-competitive, cooperative games focuses on equilibrium and balance. The goal of the players is to create a balance in the game, according to the original theory of the Nash equilibrium, put forward by economist John Forbes Nash.

Features

Game theory learning states that players factor in the reasoning of other players, the rules of the game and the knowledge of winning the game to develop a personal strategy for winning the game. The weight of the factors differ with the individual personality.

Misconception

Not all players behave in a rational manner and some may violate or ignore the rules. For this reason, the learning theory using games must evaluate the play over a period of time, rather than considering only one event.

References

• OTEC: Learning Theories and Transfer of Learning
• "The Theory of Learning in Games;" Drew Fundenberg and David K. Levine; 1998
• "Behavioral Game Theory: Thinking, Learning, and Teaching;" Colin F. Camerer, et al; 2001
• "Prediction, learning, and games;" Nicolo Cesa-Bianchi and Gabor Lugosi; 2006
• "International Encyclopedia of the Social Sciences;" Nash Equilibrium; Rajiv Sethi