The Difference Between Gimkit and Blooket lies in their unique approaches to game-based learning. Gimkit and Blooket are both popular game-based learning platforms that enhance classroom engagement through interactive quizzes, but they cater to different teaching styles and learning experiences. Here’s a detailed comparison highlighting their key differences:
1. Game Structure and Focus
- Gimkit: Primarily teacher-led, Gimkit focuses on live, synchronous gameplay. It emphasizes strategic learning, where students earn virtual currency for correct answers, which can be used to purchase power-ups during the game. This adds a layer of strategy to the learning process.
- Blooket: In contrast, Blooket is student-led, allowing learners to engage with quizzes at their own pace. It incorporates various game modes that make learning feel like a game, with students earning coins that can be used to buy avatars and other in-game items.
2. Gameplay Experience
- Gimkit: Known for its “live learning game show” format, Gimkit offers a more structured experience with specific rules around question formats (e.g., multiple-choice questions must have exactly four options). The platform also restricts question text to 220 characters.
- Blooket: Offers a variety of engaging game modes such as “Tower Defense” and “Factory,” which blend traditional quizzing with video game-like elements. This makes the experience more playful and less rigid, appealing particularly to younger audiences.
3. Customization and Ease of Use
- Gimkit: While it allows for extensive customization of quizzes, it may require more setup time due to its complex gameplay mechanics. Teachers must save question sets to view student performance reports.
- Blooket: Generally considered more user-friendly, Blooket provides intuitive navigation and easy setup for games. Teachers can quickly create games or import questions from external sources like Quizlet without extensive instructions.
4. Engagement and Motivation
- Gimkit: The platform’s trendy game titles and strategic elements (like the “Trust No One” mode inspired by popular culture) can enhance student engagement. However, its focus on live play may limit flexibility for some learners.
- Blooket: With multiple game modes and the ability to assign games as homework, Blooket maintains high engagement levels through fun competition and self-paced learning opportunities.
5. Pricing
- Gimkit: Offers a free version with limited features but charges for advanced functionalities. The Pro version costs approximately $5 per month.
- Blooket: Free to use with optional paid upgrades for additional features, making it more accessible for teachers on a budget.
Conclusion
In summary, while both Gimkit and Blooket aim to gamify education and make learning enjoyable, they cater to different needs. Gimkit is ideal for structured, teacher-led environments focusing on strategy and live interaction, whereas Blooket excels in providing a flexible, student-driven approach that emphasizes fun and competition. Choosing between them depends on your educational goals and classroom dynamics.
