Library takes steps to expand and sustain learning game

The Utena A. and M. Miskiniai Public Library is building and strengthening partnerships that will ensure sustainability and expansion of the ‘Play to Study’ project, which uses a new computer game to motivate reluctant children to go back to school.

In February, the library presented their innovative game, Iššūkis (The Challenge), to education experts and government representatives, including the ministries of Education and Science, Culture, Social Security and Labour.

“The purpose of the presentation was not only to spread the information, but also to find potential partners and resources for its expansion,” said the head of the library’s Information Department, Ms Laima Lapiniene.

The presentation at the Education Development Centre of Lithuania led to lively discussion and positive responses, and the library has set dates in March for more formal discussion with the Ministry of Education and Science.

With EIFL-PLIP support, the library created Iššūkis to encourage teenagers who were resisting going to school, but who were happy to come to the library, to reconnect with their teachers and school subjects. The game was launched in November 2010, and after only four months 775 children have registered to play. According to teachers, the most popular subjects the children are ‘playing to learn’ are mathematics and languages.

The Utena A. and M. Miskiniai Public Library sent a strong team to the high-level presentation, including the Director, Vida Garunkstyte, and Ms Lapiniene. The Director of Utena Education Centre, Vitalija Bujanauskiene, also presented results of the project.

Designed for grades 5 – 7, Iššūkis combines tasks from five school subjects: mathematics, history, Lithuanian and English languages, and nature sciences. Learning tasks are presented in attractive and interesting mini-games.