# Serious Gaming Review (2026): 7.6/10 · Coursera · Paid > Independent review of Serious Gaming on Coursera. Rated 7.6/10 by our editorial team. Pros, cons, price, and top alternatives. Certificate available. Updated… Education & Teacher Training Courses Serious Gaming ![Serious Gaming](/api/media/file/hero/serious-gaming-course.webp?v=2?width=800) # Serious Gaming Course — Review (7.6/10) This course offers a solid introduction to the concept and application of serious games, blending theory with practical examples. It's ideal for educators, trainers, and designers interested in gamifi... Explore This Course 🎟️ Coursera Discount Offer Explore This Course Serious Gaming is a 9 weeks online beginner-level course on Coursera by Erasmus University Rotterdam that covers education & teacher training. This course offers a solid introduction to the concept and application of serious games, blending theory with practical examples. It's ideal for educators, trainers, and designers interested in gamification. While not technically intensive, it provides valuable insights into how games can influence behavior and learning. Some learners may find the content more conceptual than hands-on. We rate it 7.6/10. ## Prerequisites No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in education & teacher training. ## Pros - Clear and accessible introduction to serious games for beginners - Well-structured modules with logical progression of concepts - Draws from interdisciplinary theories in game studies and philosophy - Includes real-world case studies across education, health, and policy ## Cons - Limited hands-on game development or design practice - Some theoretical content may feel abstract to practical learners - Lacks depth in technical aspects of game creation ## Serious Gaming Course Review Platform: Coursera Instructor: Erasmus University Rotterdam Updated May 4, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate ## What will you learn in Serious Gaming course - Understand the definition and core concepts of serious games - Identify different types and classifications of serious games - Analyze why people are motivated to play serious games - Evaluate the societal and educational impact of serious games - Apply game design principles to real-world problem solving ### Program Overview ### Module 1: Introduction to Serious Games Duration estimate: 2 weeks - What are serious games? - History and evolution of serious games - Distinguishing serious games from entertainment games ### Module 2: Theories Behind Game Engagement Duration: 2 weeks - Psychological motivations for playing games - Philosophical perspectives on play and meaning - Player engagement and immersion theories ### Module 3: Design and Development of Serious Games Duration: 3 weeks - Game mechanics and learning objectives - Designing for behavior change - Case studies in health, education, and policy ### Module 4: Impact and Future of Serious Games Duration: 2 weeks - Measuring effectiveness and outcomes - Ethical considerations in serious game design - Emerging trends and future applications ### Get certificate #### Job Outlook - Relevance in educational technology and instructional design roles - Opportunities in corporate training and e-learning development - Applications in public health, policy, and social advocacy ## Editorial Take Games aren't just for entertainment—this course reveals how they're being used to educate, train, and influence behavior across sectors. Designed by Erasmus University Rotterdam, 'Serious Gaming' introduces learners to the growing field of purpose-driven games. ### Standout Strengths - Interdisciplinary Foundation: The course draws from game studies, philosophy, and psychology, offering a well-rounded academic perspective. This blend helps learners understand not just how serious games work, but why they resonate with people. - Real-World Relevance: Case studies in healthcare, education, and social policy demonstrate how games are used to train professionals and influence public behavior. These examples ground abstract concepts in tangible outcomes. - Beginner-Friendly Approach: No prior experience in game design or development is required. The course is accessible to educators, trainers, and non-technical professionals interested in gamification and learning design. - Global Perspective: Developed by a European university, the course includes international examples and diverse applications, broadening its relevance beyond a single cultural context. - Flexible Learning Format: As a Coursera offering, it allows self-paced study with optional deadlines. Learners can audit the course for free or pay for certification, making it accessible to a wide audience. - Clear Module Structure: Each week builds logically from foundational definitions to impact assessment. The progression helps learners develop a comprehensive understanding without feeling overwhelmed. ### Honest Limitations - Limited Hands-On Practice: While the course discusses game design, it doesn't include actual game creation or coding exercises. Learners seeking technical skills may find it too theoretical for their goals. - Theoretical Depth Over Practical Tools: The focus on philosophy and motivation theories may feel abstract to those looking for actionable design frameworks or software tutorials. - Niche Subject Scope: Serious gaming is a specialized field, and the course doesn't cover broader game development topics. This limits its appeal to those outside education, training, or social impact roles. - Certificate Value Uncertain: The course certificate may not carry strong weight in competitive job markets, especially without portfolio projects to showcase. ### How to Get the Most Out of It - Study cadence: Aim for 3–4 hours per week to stay on track without rushing. The conceptual nature benefits from reflection between sessions. - Parallel project: Design a simple serious game concept based on your field—this reinforces learning and builds practical insight. - Note-taking: Summarize key theories and examples to create a personal reference guide for future applications. - Community: Engage in discussion forums to exchange ideas with peers from diverse professional backgrounds. - Practice: Apply concepts by analyzing existing serious games or gamified training programs in your organization. - Consistency: Complete weekly quizzes and peer reviews promptly to maintain momentum and deepen retention. ### Supplementary Resources - Book: "Serious Games: Games That Educate, Train, and Inform" by David Michael and Sande Chen provides deeper design insights. - Tool: Use free platforms like Twine or Scratch to prototype simple educational games based on course concepts. - Follow-up: Explore Coursera's Game Design and Development Specialization for technical follow-up learning. - Reference: The Meaningful Play Project by Georgia Tech offers research and case studies extending beyond course content. ### Common Pitfalls - Pitfall: Expecting to learn game programming or development tools. This course is conceptual, not technical—adjust expectations accordingly. - Pitfall: Skipping case studies. These are crucial for understanding real-world applications and should not be overlooked. - Pitfall: Underestimating reflection time. Theoretical content requires processing; rushing through may reduce long-term retention. ### Time & Money ROI - Time: At 9 weeks and 3–4 hours weekly, the time investment is manageable and suitable for working professionals. - Cost-to-value: The paid certificate offers moderate value—worth it for credentialing, but less so for skill acquisition alone. - Certificate: The credential supports professional development in education or training roles but lacks industry-wide recognition. - Alternative: Free resources on gamification exist, but this course provides structured, academically grounded learning with expert guidance. ### Editorial Verdict This course fills an important niche by introducing learners to the theory and application of serious games in a structured, accessible format. It’s particularly valuable for educators, instructional designers, and public sector professionals looking to understand how games can drive learning and behavior change. While it doesn’t teach technical game development, it excels in explaining the 'why' behind serious games—making it a strong choice for conceptual learners. We recommend this course for those seeking foundational knowledge in gamification and its societal applications. It’s best paired with hands-on projects or follow-up courses if practical skills are the end goal. Overall, it delivers solid academic content with real-world relevance, justifying its modest cost and time commitment for the right audience—especially those in education, training, or social impact fields. ## How Serious Gaming Compares | Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Serious Gaming | Coursera | 7.6/10 | Beginner | 9 weeks | | Exploring Global Festivals and Celebrations Course | Udemy | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A | | Improving Educational Outcomes through Family Engagement course | EDX | 9.7/10 | N/A | N/A | | University Chemistry course | EDX | 9.7/10 | N/A | N/A | ## Who Should Take Serious Gaming? This course is best suited for learners with no prior experience in education & teacher training. It is designed for career changers, fresh graduates, and self-taught learners looking for a structured introduction. The course is offered by Erasmus University Rotterdam on Coursera, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a course certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers. If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course. ### Career Outcomes - Apply education & teacher training skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities - Qualify for entry-level positions in education & teacher training and related fields - Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers - Add a course certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume - Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field ## More Education & Teacher Training Courses on Coursera Explore other highly rated courses in education & teacher training available on Coursera to expand your learning path: - ChatGPT Foundations for Teachers course 9.7/10 - Chosen Issues in Holocaust History Course 9.2/10 - Generative AI in the Classroom for Educators Course 8.7/10 - Generative AI for Students: Ethics & Academic Integrity Course 8.7/10 - Generative AI for University Leaders 8.7/10 - Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 4 Course 8.7/10 - Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 5 Course 8.7/10 - Expanding SEL: Community and Youth Empowerment in Social and Emotional Learning 8.7/10 - Excellence in Online Teaching Course 8.7/10 - Teaching EFL/ESL Reading: A Task Based Approach 8.7/10 ## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms Looking for a different teaching style or approach? These top-rated education & teacher training courses from other platforms cover similar ground: - Exploring Global Festivals and Celebrations Course 10.0/10 Udemy - Improving Educational Outcomes through Family Engagement course 9.7/10 EDX - University Chemistry course 9.7/10 EDX - Mastering Rogerian Counselling Skills Course 9.6/10 Udemy - Directing the Actor: A USC course with Nina Foch 9.6/10 Udemy - Leadership Training for Autism Ministry & Caregiver Support Course 9.5/10 Udemy - Reading Comprehension: The Wild Robot Parent Guide Course 9.5/10 Udemy - INSPIRED BY REGGIO EMILIA: Creating the Outdoor Classroom Course 9.4/10 Udemy - Academic Writing and Research References using Zotero Course 9.4/10 Udemy - The Bible: What It Is, How We Got It, And Is It The Real Thing? 9.4/10 Udemy ## More Courses from Erasmus University Rotterdam Erasmus University Rotterdam offers a range of courses across multiple disciplines. 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Be the first to share your experience! ## FAQs What are the prerequisites for Serious Gaming? No prior experience is required. Serious Gaming is designed for complete beginners who want to build a solid foundation in Education & Teacher Training. It starts from the fundamentals and gradually introduces more advanced concepts, making it accessible for career changers, students, and self-taught learners. Does Serious Gaming offer a certificate upon completion? Yes, upon successful completion you receive a course certificate from Erasmus University Rotterdam. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Education & Teacher Training can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development. How long does it take to complete Serious Gaming? The course takes approximately 9 weeks to complete. It is offered as a free to audit course on Coursera, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably. What are the main strengths and limitations of Serious Gaming? Serious Gaming is rated 7.6/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: clear and accessible introduction to serious games for beginners; well-structured modules with logical progression of concepts; draws from interdisciplinary theories in game studies and philosophy. Some limitations to consider: limited hands-on game development or design practice; some theoretical content may feel abstract to practical learners. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Education & Teacher Training. How will Serious Gaming help my career? Completing Serious Gaming equips you with practical Education & Teacher Training skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by Erasmus University Rotterdam, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market. Where can I take Serious Gaming and how do I access it? Serious Gaming is available on Coursera, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is free to audit, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on Coursera and enroll in the course to get started. How does Serious Gaming compare to other Education & Teacher Training courses? Serious Gaming is rated 7.6/10 on our platform, placing it as a solid choice among education & teacher training courses. Its standout strengths — clear and accessible introduction to serious games for beginners — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding. What language is Serious Gaming taught in? Serious Gaming is taught in English. Many online courses on Coursera also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction. Is Serious Gaming kept up to date? Online courses on Coursera are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. Erasmus University Rotterdam has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate. Can I take Serious Gaming as part of a team or organization? Yes, Coursera offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like Serious Gaming. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build education & teacher training capabilities across a group. What will I be able to do after completing Serious Gaming? After completing Serious Gaming, you will have practical skills in education & teacher training that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. Your course certificate credential can be shared on LinkedIn and added to your resume to demonstrate your verified competence to employers. ## Similar Courses Other courses in Education & Teacher Training Courses ![Wargaming and Strategy Course](/api/media/file/hero/wargaming-and-strategy-course.jpg?width=480) EDX Business & Management Courses ### Wargaming and Strategy Course ★★★★½ EDX View Course » Enroll ![An Introduction to LEGO® Serious Play® Course](/api/media/file/hero/an-introduction-to-lego-serious-play-course.jpg?width=480) Udemy Business & Management Courses ### An Introduction to LEGO® Serious Play® Course ★★★½☆ Udemy View Course » Enroll ## Related Job Opportunities ### Field Technician - Power Generation Wajax Limited Moncton, CA Full-Time ### Truck and Coach Field Technician Wajax Limited Belleville, CA Full-Time ### RSE Millwright - Shop & Field Service Technician Wajax Limited Calgary, CA Full-Time ### Warehouse Operations Manager Gist Limited Crewe, GB Full-Time GBP 45–59/yr ### CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST Kings Foundation Sheffield, GB Full-Time GBP 23–26/yr Browse more jobs on JobsNearMe.career → ### Explore Related Categories All Education & Teacher Training Courses Explore Course Reviews ### Review: Serious Gaming Your Name * Email (optional, not displayed) Rating * Your Review * ### Discover More Course Categories Explore expert-reviewed courses across every field Data Science Courses AI Courses Python Courses Machine Learning Courses Web Development Courses Cybersecurity Courses Data Analyst Courses Excel Courses Cloud & DevOps Courses UX Design Courses Project Management Courses SEO Courses Agile & Scrum Courses Business Courses Marketing Courses Software Dev Courses Browse all 10,000+ courses »