The wave of digital learning, fueled by the pandemic, has introduced teachers and students to a multitude of tech-driven tools. Enter Blooket, a gamified learning platform that’s sweeping classrooms with its unique blend of quizzes, games, and interactive learning. But what really sets Blooket apart from other platforms like Kahoot! and Quizizz, and is it the right fit for every student?
What Exactly is Blooket?
At its core, Blooket is an online platform that combines learning with game-based fun. It allows teachers to host games where students answer questions on their devices, competing in real-time and collecting rewards like points, “Blooks” (adorable avatars), and coins along the way. Founded by educator Ben Stewart in 2019, Blooket was born out of a simple idea: make learning as addictive and enjoyable as the games students already love. As of mid-2024, it boasts a community of over 15 million users, and it’s easy to see why. Stewart aimed to create a platform that makes learning so engaging that students forget they’re even in a classroom. Judging by Blooket’s rapid rise in popularity, it’s clear he hit a nerve.
How Blooket Works: More Than Just Quizzes
Blooket is remarkably easy to set up, even for the most tech-averse teachers. It offers over 20 million pre-made question sets, covering everything from math to history, so educators can dive right in without the headache of creating quizzes from scratch. And if a teacher wants something custom, Blooket provides an intuitive quiz builder and even a tool to convert existing quizzes. This means that teachers can get a game up and running in minutes, no tech support needed.
Once the game is live, students use a unique code to join in from their own devices. Blooket’s biggest draw is its variety of game modes—15 in total, including popular choices like “Fishing Frenzy,” “Tower Defense,” and “Crypto Hack.” Each game has its own mechanics, so students never get bored, and teachers can match the game to their lesson objectives or students’ learning styles. When the dust settles after a game, teachers receive a report detailing student performance, making it easy to spot strengths and areas for improvement.
The Pros: Why Students and Teachers Love Blooket
- Engagement through Gamification: Let’s face it; Blooket’s biggest draw is its fun factor. By rewarding students with points and characters (Blooks) for correct answers, Blooket taps into students’ natural desire to achieve, win, and progress. It’s almost like they’re leveling up in a game, not taking a quiz.
- Diverse Learning Styles: Not every student learns the same way. Some students thrive in a competitive environment, while others need a more relaxed approach. Blooket’s various game modes mean teachers can pick the one that best suits the pace and style of their classroom.
- Easy to Use: With a simple interface and loads of pre-made content, Blooket takes the pressure off teachers. The platform can be used as a quick review tool or a centerpiece for an entire lesson, making it versatile enough for any situation.
- Regular Updates and Events: Blooket hosts seasonal events like the “Legendary Universal Never-before-Seen Championships of Hockey” (LUNCH), which keep the platform fresh and students coming back. With rumors of new events like “Spooktober” on the horizon, Blooket keeps things lively.
The Cons: Where Blooket Might Fall Short
- Fast-Paced and Luck-Based Mechanics: One common critique of Blooket is that its games often reward speed or luck over pure knowledge. For example, a student might win a game by getting lucky with the game mechanics even if they answered fewer questions correctly. This can be frustrating for students who prioritize accuracy over speed.
- Potential to Isolate Some Learners: While competitive games can be a huge motivator for some students, they may feel overwhelming for others, particularly those who struggle with the fast pace or who have neurodiverse needs. In such cases, Blooket might feel more like a hurdle than a learning aid.
- Shallow Engagement with Content: Because students are focused on racking up points, some may breeze through questions without fully processing the material. In this sense, the platform can sometimes sacrifice depth for engagement.
Pricing: Is Blooket Worth It?
Blooket offers a free starter package that gives teachers access to essential features, including creating and hosting games for up to 60 players. For classrooms needing more capacity and additional features, there’s a $4.99/month package (charged yearly), allowing up to 300 players and access to enhanced customization options. It’s a reasonable price for schools or teachers who find the platform effective, but the free version is sufficient for smaller classrooms or those just getting started.
Should You Use Blooket in Your Classroom?
Blooket has certainly cracked the code for blending education with entertainment, making it a popular tool for teachers worldwide. It’s fantastic for making review sessions, homework assignments, or even exam prep feel less like a chore and more like a game. But it’s essential to consider the needs and personalities of your students. For classes that thrive on competition and enjoy a quick pace, Blooket is a match made in heaven. For others, it might be worth alternating Blooket with more traditional learning tools to ensure all students stay engaged.
In short, Blooket is like a hidden gem for modern classrooms—it’s fun, it’s flexible, and it’s functional. Just keep in mind that, as with any educational tool, it’s all about balance. So go ahead, give Blooket a try, and watch your students’ enthusiasm skyrocket—but remember, there’s still a place for good old-fashioned learning right alongside the games.
Tricia Nelson is a skilled writer at 3Zebras, known for her insightful articles on technology, science, and gaming. She covers a wide range of topics, from the potential of nanotechnology in mimicking cobwebs to exploring new discoveries in astronomy. Tricia’s work stands out for its clear explanations and engaging style, making complex subjects accessible to all readers. Her contributions have made her a respected voice in the 3Zebras community,