What are some game design principles you can use to teach new skills?

1 Feedback loops

Feedback loops are essential for learning, as they provide players with information about their actions and outcomes. Feedback can be positive or negative, and can be delivered in various forms, such as sounds, visuals, text, or rewards. Feedback loops can help players understand the rules and goals of your game, adjust their strategies and behaviors, and feel motivated and satisfied. To design effective feedback loops, you need to consider the timing, frequency, clarity, and relevance of your feedback.

2 Scaffolding and fading

Scaffolding and fading are techniques that help players learn by gradually increasing the difficulty and complexity of your game. Scaffolding means providing players with guidance, hints, or assistance when they encounter new or challenging situations. Fading means reducing or removing the scaffolding as players become more proficient and confident. Scaffolding and fading can help players learn at their own pace, avoid frustration and boredom, and achieve mastery and autonomy. To design effective scaffolding and fading, you need to consider the learning curve, the difficulty level, and the player's preferences and needs.

4 Discovery learning

Discovery learning is a type of learning that involves exploration, experimentation, and problem-solving. Discovery learning can foster learning, as players are more active, curious, and motivated to find out new things and test their hypotheses. Discovery learning can also foster enjoyment, as players feel a sense of wonder, surprise, and satisfaction. To design for discovery learning, you need to consider the openness and richness of your game world, the variety and interactivity of your game elements, and the guidance and feedback that support your player's curiosity.

5 Social learning

Social learning is a type of learning that involves observation, imitation, and collaboration. Social learning can enhance learning, as players can learn from others' experiences, perspectives, and feedback. Social learning can also enhance enjoyment, as players can share their emotions, achievements, and challenges. To design for social learning, you need to consider the opportunities and tools for communication, cooperation, and competition in your game, the roles and identities that players can adopt and express, and the social norms and rules that shape your game culture.