The Parent Factor in a Successful Mastery Gamification Classroom
As educators, we all know that the parents of the students we teach can be a wildcard. One of the wonderful things about our students is that they come from many diverse backgrounds and upbringings. This diversity in our classroom can be a wonderful asset to the students’ experience. Along with this benefit to our students, this also means that we need to communicate well with these diverse parents. This necessity becomes even more important when you are implementing new, research-backed methods in the classroom. Often, if we are diverting from the normal and expected old methods of teaching, parents want to be supportive but are unaware how to do so. Therefore, the parent function in Mastery Gamification needs to be addressed and communication is of utmost importance. This way we can make the best experience for our students.
As all educators know, if the parent function is a supportive parent, that makes a huge difference in the academic success of the student. If a parent values education and encourages their child to do their best this increases the likelihood that the student will succeed.
I also believe that the majority of parents want to be supportive of their child’s learning. Yet a supportive parent function can be difficult when the teacher tries new, research-based methods that were not common when the parent was in school. This is where communication comes in and is very important. Most parents love Mastery Gamification once they know what the process is. When parents find out that their student can get unlimited retakes, they encourage their student to try their best. This is a great situation for everyone!
When to Reach Out to Parents
There are three main events that warrant communication with parents to clarify the parent function and to ensure that the parent and teacher are a team to help the student succeed. The three main events that I encourage parent communication are at the beginning of the year, right before the first boss battle, and in the event that the student starts to fall behind.
I recommend sending out an initial email at the beginning of the year. This email is to explain the Mastery Gamification process to parents. The email could go something like this:
Subject: Welcome to a Year of Empowering Learning Opportunities in [Subject]!
Dear Parents and Guardians,
I hope this message finds you well and brimming with excitement for the new school year ahead. I am thrilled to have your child in my class this year and am looking forward to a journey filled with growth, challenges, and triumphs. In our classroom, we’re not just focused on learning the curriculum; we’re dedicated to mastering it in a way that engages and empowers every student. This year, we’re implementing a Mastery Gamification Methodology, an innovative approach to education that I’m eager to share with you.
Mastery Gamification is a teaching strategy designed to enhance learning by incorporating elements of game design and game mechanics into the educational process. It is built on the foundation of standards-based learning, mastery-learning, and, of course, gamification. The core of this methodology is to encourage a mindset of perseverance and determination—qualities that are crucial for success in both academic and personal realms.
Here’s a brief overview of how Mastery Gamification works in our classroom:
1. Standards and Power Standards: We begin by identifying the key standards that students need to master over the course of the year. These “power standards” are the essential skills and knowledge that are critical for students’ success.
2. Minimum Mastery Level: For each standard, we determine a minimum mastery level. This level represents the essential understanding and skill that every student needs to demonstrate.
3. Structured Learning Units: The curriculum is divided into manageable units, each focused on specific standards. This structure helps students focus on mastering one concept at a time.
4. Levels and Assignments: Each standard is associated with a level in the gamified system. Assignments and assessments are designed to allow students to demonstrate mastery of each level.
5. Flexible Delivery Methods: We use various methods to deliver material and collect assignments, ensuring that every student can access the learning in a way that works best for them.
6. Unlimited Redos: One of the most empowering aspects of our approach is the opportunity for unlimited redos. If a student does not meet the minimum mastery level on an assignment, they are encouraged to try again, applying the feedback and insights gained from their initial attempt. This process underscores the belief that learning is a journey, with mistakes serving as valuable stepping stones.
7. Gamified Story and Progression: Each student’s journey through the standards is framed as an exciting story, with challenges (assignments) and bosses (major assessments) that make the learning process engaging and dynamic.
This approach reinforces the importance of grit—a steadfast determination to overcome obstacles. We believe that by embracing challenges and learning from setbacks, students develop resilience and confidence that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
We’re on an exciting path towards not just academic success, but the cultivation of lifelong learners who are prepared to tackle any challenge with perseverance and a positive attitude. I invite you to join me in this journey, supporting your child in embracing the opportunities and lessons this year will undoubtedly bring.
Should you have any questions or wish to discuss this further, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we’re not just teaching; we’re transforming the way our children learn.
Warm regards,
[Teacher Name]
[Teacher Contact Information]
Also be sure that many of the Mastery Gamified elements are addressed on your syllabus. Between these two points of contact, the parent function in Mastery Gamification will start to clarify.
The Second Point of Contact
Another opportunity to clarify the parent function is to address with the parents of your students is what I call “the grade roller coaster.” If you are using the true Mastery Gamification system, the only grades that will be in the grade book will be the boss battles (tests). If a student does not do well on their first test it can be discouraging. Also, when that grade goes in the grade book, that can temporarily plummet a student’s grade very quickly. That is when it is important to let parents know that the bad grade is only there until the student earns a better one and no deductions will be applied for redos. If parents do not understand this aspect of the system, be prepared for panicked parent contact!
I recommend sending out an email similar to this right before your first boss battle of the year. This will help prepare parents for the “grade roller coaster”. Here is a sample email you could send out to parents:
Subject: Important Update Regarding Testing Windows and Mastery Opportunities
Dear Parents and Guardians,
I hope this email finds you well. In [subject] class, we are about to have our first boss battle (assessment) and I want to assure you that our Mastery Gamification approach is designed with every student’s success in mind. If your student does not do well on the first test, there are key features of our methodology that directly address these concerns.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that our grading system is built to emphasize learning and mastery over timing. If your child misses a testing window, resulting in a temporary grade of 0, please know that this is not a final assessment of their understanding or abilities. In our classroom, we operate on the principle that learning is a process, and progress takes time. Therefore, we provide unlimited redos for all assessments, with no late deductions. This approach allows students the flexibility to learn at their own pace and ensures that when they do take the test, they’re fully prepared and confident in their understanding.
Here’s what this means for your student:
– Unlimited Redos: Your child can retake the test at any time during the next available testing window. We encourage students to view these redos not as repeats but as opportunities for growth and improvement.
– No Late Deductions: We understand life happens, and sometimes schedules don’t align. There are no penalties for taking a test after the initial window has closed. Our goal is for students to learn the material thoroughly, not just within a predetermined time frame.
– Grade Replacement: Once your child retakes the test and demonstrates their mastery of the content, the initial grade of 0 will be replaced with their new grade. This ensures that their hard work and learning are accurately reflected in their overall performance.
I want to emphasize that our priority is your child’s learning and development. The Mastery Gamification approach is designed to foster an environment where students are encouraged to take risks, learn from their mistakes, and ultimately, achieve a deep understanding of the material. We believe this process cultivates resilience, independence, and a love for learning that will benefit them far beyond our classroom.
If you or your student have any concerns or need further clarification on the process, please do not hesitate to reach out. My goal is to support your child’s learning journey in every way possible, and communication is key to achieving this. Together, we can ensure a positive and productive learning experience for your student.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Warm regards,
[Teacher Name]
[Teacher Contact Information]
The Third Point of Contact
The third instance where it is a good idea to clarify the parent function is if a student starts to fall behind. In the Mastery Gamification Methodology, students will pass each level (unit) at the minimum mastery level which I recommend to set at 75%. However, it will take some students longer than others to pass each unit at the minimum mastery level. If a student starts to fall too far behind, it may be appropriate for an encouraging email to the parent and student about prioritizing studying and testing in class.
Sometimes, when students hear “unlimited redos” and “flexible test dates” instead of using those as a chance to achieve excellence, some use it as an excuse to never actually take the test. At that point, it may be a good time for parent contact. Here’s an example email you could send to the parent in this situation:
Subject: Supporting [Student’s Name]’s Success in Our Mastery Gamified Classroom
Dear [Parent/Guardian’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. As we navigate through this academic year, I wanted to take a moment to discuss your child, [Student’s Name], and their progress in our class. Our Mastery Gamification approach aims to make learning an engaging and rewarding experience for every student. However, I’ve noticed that [Student’s Name] has been facing some challenges lately that I believe we can overcome together.
In our class, we use “boss battles” (major assessments), “study quests” (homework and study assignments), and “level-ups” (progression through learning standards) to gamify the learning process. These elements are designed to motivate students by making their learning journey feel like an adventure. Unfortunately, [Student’s Name] has shown a lack of engagement with these activities. This has impacted their ability to keep pace with the class.
[Student’s Name] has been hesitant to participate in boss battles and study quests, and this has affected their overall grade and understanding of the course material. Mastery of the content is crucial in our gamified system, as each student’s progression depends on demonstrating their knowledge and skills at every level.
To support [Student’s Name] in catching up and making the most of the opportunities our classroom offers, here are a few suggestions:
1. Home Support: Encouraging [Student’s Name] to dedicate time at home for review and preparation can significantly impact their confidence and performance. Creating a quiet, distraction-free study space can also help improve focus and productivity.
2. Utilizing Class Time: I will work with [Student’s Name] to develop strategies for using class time more effectively. This includes participating in group discussions, asking questions, and engaging in in-class activities that prepare them for boss battles and level-ups.
3. Extra Help: I am available for extra help sessions after school and during lunch. I strongly encourage [Student’s Name] to take advantage of these opportunities for one-on-one assistance and guidance.
4. Goal Setting: Together with [Student’s Name], we can set achievable goals for each week. These goals can include completing specific study quests, preparing for an upcoming boss battle, or improving a particular skill. Celebrating these small victories can boost motivation and engagement.
5. Feedback and Redos: Reminding [Student’s Name] that our class allows for unlimited redos on boss battles can alleviate the pressure of perfection. Encouraging them to view feedback as a tool for growth rather than criticism can also help shift their perspective on learning.
I believe in [Student’s Name]’s ability to overcome these challenges and excel in our classroom. Your support and encouragement at home are invaluable to their success. If you have any concerns, suggestions, or would like to discuss this further, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Let’s work together to ensure [Student’s Name] not only catches up but thrives in our learning community.
Thank you for your time and support. I look forward to our collaboration in fostering a positive and productive learning environment for [Student’s Name].
Warm regards,
[Teacher Name]
[Teacher Contact Information]
Communication is Key to Clarifying the Parent Function
As an educator, communication with parents is very important. Especially when you are implementing new, research-based strategies that the parents may not be familiar with. Be sure to contact parents at these three events during the school year. Then you will have the chance to clarify the parent function in each child’s education. This will help to create the supportive learning system that students need to succeed.
If you’re interested in bringing the Mastery Gamification Methodology to your classroom, send me an email at stephanie@segrovestrategies.com or look me up on my Facebook page. I’d be happy to tell you about our Mastery Gamification Educator Mastermind Group that you can find on my Available Services tab.
