Gimkit review: Kahoot on steroids
Game show-based, addicting and slightly consumerist, this platform has undoubtedly surpassed Kahoot on so many levels.
Gimkit is literally like Kahoot but amped and with catchier audio if that was even possible. With similar multiple-choice gameplay, the two platforms both allowed students to learn class material more enjoyably. However, while most people are familiar with Kahoot or Quizlet Live as the go-to choice for educational games in classrooms, personally, Gimkit proved to be more enjoyable, less chaotic and addictive.
Developed by a high school student who was driven by his wish to make learning more enjoyable, Josh Feinsilber first launched the platform in 2017, where it quickly gained popularity. But does it really help students?
I first learned about Gimkit last school year during my English class. The platform’s unique game modes allowed for more convenience during distance learning classes, especially this year in my Latin class.
To “win” Gimkit, students can work in teams or independently. By answering questions correctly, you get rewarded with money. But, with the tempting upgrades and power-ups, $3 per question accumulates to $50k. The main objective is to, capitalistically, make the most money.
You can also watch the overall grossing of how much money produced by all players. In my own experience, the highest has been over a trillion dollars, but shortly after, our class crashed the app. Another thing to try and achieve if you happen to play.
Teachers can create their own Gimkit lessons or create assignments where students work on answering questions independently. Following the results, teachers also get a detailed analysis of each round, allowing them to identify the strengths and weaknesses of students.
While Gimkit is definitely my favorite learning platform, it does come with some downsides. Gimkit has a subscription of annual $59.88 or a monthly fee of $4.99, (with a free 30-day trial, of course). They also have discount pricing for schools and districts. But, with their continuously updating game modes, some inspired by the hit game “Among Us” or Marvel movie “Infinity War”, the subscription is tempting.
What separated Gimkit from any other app I’ve used was how easily you can learn information. Because Gimkit feels so much like an idle clicking-game, you’re pressured to learn the material, unless you want to face bankruptcy. Oh yeah, you lose money for every question answered incorrectly. With the adrenaline of competing with your classmates for the highest figures, Gimkit is horribly addicting.
Despite their current, three-person, independent company, Gimkit has overall proven to have much potential and further utilization in classrooms. I look forward to their constant upgrades and hopefully, wider employment throughout our school.
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