Gimkit is an interactive learning platform that transforms traditional quizzes into engaging games. By becoming a Gimkit host, educators can create dynamic learning experiences that motivate students through gameplay.
Step 1: Create Your Gimkit Account
To begin hosting games on Gimkit, you’ll need to create an educator account:
- Visit gimkit.com/signup.
- Sign up using your Google account or an email address.
- Select “Educator” as your account type.
- Complete the setup by providing necessary details, including your school’s information.
New educator accounts come with a 14-day free trial of Gimkit Pro, granting access to premium features like advanced game modes and detailed reports.
Step 2: Create or Select a Kit
A “Kit” in Gimkit is a set of questions on a particular topic. You can either create a new kit or choose from existing ones:
Creating a New Kit
- From your dashboard, click “New Kit.”
- Enter a title, select a subject, and choose a language.
- Add questions manually, import from Quizlet, or use Gimkit’s question bank.
- Customize questions with images or audio if desired.
For detailed instructions, refer to the official guide on creating a kit from scratch.
Selecting an Existing Kit
Browse the public library of kits by subject, grade level, or topic to find one that suits your needs.
Step 3: Choose a Game Mode
Gimkit offers various game modes to cater to different learning objectives:
- Classic: Standard gameplay where students earn virtual currency for correct answers.
- Team Mode: Students collaborate in teams to achieve shared goals.
- Themed Modes: Seasonal or unique modes like “Trust No One” or “The Floor is Lava” add variety.
Each mode introduces unique mechanics, so choose one that aligns with your session’s objectives.
Step 4: Customize Game Settings
Tailor the game experience by adjusting various settings:
- Game Duration: Set the length of the game.
- Question Order: Shuffle questions to ensure variety.
- Power-Ups: Enable or disable in-game upgrades.
- Privacy Controls: Decide if players can join late or require a class code.
These settings help create a game environment that matches your teaching goals.
Step 5: Share the Game Code
Once your game is set up:
- Click “Play Live” to generate a unique game code.
- Share this code or a direct join link with your students.
- Students can enter the code at gimkit.com/join to participate.
For quick access, you can also display a QR code that students can scan to join the game.
Step 6: Start and Manage the Game
After students have joined:
- Start the Game: Click “Start” to begin the session.
- Monitor Progress: Use the host dashboard to view real-time performance and leaderboards.
- Manage Participants: Remove disruptive players or adjust settings as needed.
- End the Game: Conclude the session when appropriate and review the results.
Post-game, you can access detailed reports to assess student understanding and performance.
Tips for Effective Hosting
- Know Your Audience: Tailor the difficulty and content to your students’ proficiency levels.
- Encourage Participation: Foster a positive and inclusive environment to motivate all students.
- Utilize Feedback: Use game reports to identify areas for improvement and address learning gaps.
- Experiment with Modes: Try different game modes to keep the experience fresh and engaging.
FAQs
1. What is a Gimkit host?
A Gimkit host is an educator or facilitator who sets up and manages live games on the Gimkit platform, guiding participants through interactive learning sessions.
2. Is Gimkit free to use?
Yes, Gimkit offers a free version with basic features. However, Gimkit Pro provides additional functionalities like advanced game modes and detailed reports.
3. Can I use Gimkit for remote learning?
Absolutely. Gimkit is web-based and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, making it suitable for both in-person and remote learning environments.
4. How many players can join a Gimkit game?
Gimkit supports up to 500 players in a single live game session, accommodating large classes or group events.
5. Can I create my own questions in Gimkit?
Yes, hosts can create custom question sets (Kits) or import questions from external sources like Quizlet.
Becoming a Gimkit host empowers educators to transform traditional learning into an interactive and engaging experience. By following this step-by-step guide, you can effectively set up and manage Gimkit games that motivate and educate your students.
