Mastering physiology requires not only knowledge of individual organ systems, but also appreciation for their intricate interconnectedness. This work explores two novel game-based activities designed to enhance student understanding of complex physiological concepts.
The first activity, a collaborative card game, was inspired by the human body as a complex ecosystem. Students were involved in co-design of the game where players are tasked with creating functioning human body by strategically selecting and passing cards representing anatomical structures and physiological processes. Points are awarded for correctly placing cards, reinforcing connections between components like red blood cells and veins or gas exchange in the lungs. This adaptable game can target specific systems like the heart, liver, or brain, ensuring knowledge acquisition while highlighting interdependencies and core functions.
The second activity utilises a family quiz format. Divided into teams, students research and develop questions related to a provided prompt, varying in difficulty and point value. A designated quiz master then poses these questions to other groups, awarding points based on answer complexity. This approach fosters teamwork, research skills, and reinforces understanding of key physiological concepts. Additionally, its quick implementation maintains high student engagement.
By implementing these interactive and collaborative games, lecturers can create dynamic learning experiences that not only solidify physiological knowledge, but also cultivate a sense of ownership and relevance among students. Gamification and teamwork provide lecturers with powerful tools to enhance learning efficacy without sacrificing student engagement or instructional efficiency.