Curriculum Gamification for Play-Based STEM Learning

Why?

Because play creates new neurons!

I collaborated with Coco Academy to design play-based tools that sustain student attention, extend STEM concepts into playful exploration, and offer multiple pathways for engagement. By applying Cognitive Science principles, we created a curriculum that makes learning active, flexible, and deeply engaging.

take a look and/or download the Game Vault for your classroom

What?

How can play-based learning be structured to enhance engagement, emotional regulation, and skill development in after-school STEM environments?
What frameworks enable non-educator facilitators and scientists to intuitively implement effective mindset-based learning activities?

How?

Audited and mapped existing Coco Academy STEM project playbooks for gamification and engagement opportunities.
Developed a Mindset-Based Activity Index, categorizing activities by emotional state and learning objective (e.g., energy boosts, collaboration, calm focus).
Created simple facilitator prompts and game adaptations to guide group dynamics, encourage cooperation, and improve classroom flow.
Integrated Cognitive Science principles, including intrinsic motivation, attention restoration, and social learning theory, into practical curriculum tools.

Insights

Gamification in educational settings thrives when anchored in real-time group dynamics, offering flexible pathways rather than rigid scripts.
Cognitive Science frameworks such as flow theory, emotional self-regulation, and playful exploration significantly enhance both learning outcomes and classroom experience.
Designing with facilitator ease-of-use in mind increases curriculum adoption, particularly in after-school environments where facilitator backgrounds vary widely.