Learning that truly sticks — through play
Imagine a group of students or professionals so engaged in a game that they almost forget they’re learning.
And yet, they retain more, feel deeply involved, and develop key skills like collaboration, strategic thinking, and reflection, all in a short time. That’s the power of Game Based Learning – learning through play, experience, and discovery.
What is Game Based Learning?
Game Based Learning (GBL) goes far beyond playful exercises or quizzes. It’s about purposefully designed learning experiences built on the principles of games. Participants are invited to make choices, experiment, and collaborate, just like in real-life practice.
The benefits:
- Engagement – games spark curiosity and motivation.
- Deeper learning – experience-based learning lasts longer than listening or reading.
- Collaborative learning – teamwork, communication, and reflection take center stage.
- A safe space – mistakes are part of the process and lead to insight.
Collaboration with Jasper van Winden
For this work, I collaborate with Jasper van Winden.
Jasper is Head of Educational Innovation and a management team member at the Centre for Academic Teaching and Learning at Utrecht University. Trained as a biologist and science journalist, he unexpectedly found himself teaching, and has been fascinated by learning and education ever since. His ongoing question: how can learning be made more effective, creative, and human?
Alongside his university role, Jasper works as a freelance facilitator and designer of engaging workshops and serious games. He creates analogue game experiences that bring people together, challenge them, and invite meaningful reflection.
During a casual conversation, we discovered our shared love for board games and for designing learning experiences that make a real difference. It was only natural that our collaboration would grow into Game Based Learning: where play, learning, and creativity meet.
What we offer
Together, we combine our experience in education, learning design, and creativity to craft learning experiences that engage and endure:
- Custom-designed serious games – tailored to your learning goals, context, and audience.
- Workshops and training sessions – where students or teams learn by playing and reflecting.
- Co-creation and consultancy – to integrate playful elements into existing courses or professional learning programs.
From classroom to boardroom, we help shape learning that energizes, connects, and truly lasts.
Who it’s for
Game Based Learning is ideal for a wide range of settings:
- Vocational, applied, and academic education (MBO, HBO, and university) – to engage students and strengthen critical, creative, and problem-solving thinking.
- Professional teams and organizations – to foster collaboration, communication, and innovation in everyday work.
Whether in education or professional development, play invites curiosity, connection, and growth.
Curious to learn more?
We’d love to explore how Game Based Learning can inspire your students, colleagues, or team.
Get in touch and discover how powerful learning through play can be.