I have seen the increasing popularity of Kahoot in the education sector, and it’s concerning. While Kahoot does have its benefits in engaging students and making learning more fun, there are also downsides that cannot be ignored. As a parent, you want your child to have the best possible education, but you also want to ensure their safety. In this article, we will explore the risks associated with using Kahoot in education and how it can potentially harm your child’s privacy and security. It’s important to read on, as understanding these risks can help protect your child’s online safety.

What are the downsides of Kahoot?

The Downsides of Kahoot

Kahoot is an interactive and collaborative platform, commonly used in educational settings to create learning opportunities, improve engagement, and increase retention of information. It provides a friendly interface and innovative approach to teaching, which has become exceedingly popular in recent years. Despite its ongoing success, there are a few downsides to Kahoot, which we explore in more detail below.

Privacy Concerns with Kahoot

One of the most significant concerns with Kahoot is the issue of privacy. Anyone who possesses the game code can join in and play, which can be problematic, given the number of students or participants outside of the intended audience who could easily gain access to the game. This issue has become more pressing in recent years, as cyber security and internet privacy have become critical issues in the field. Without proper safeguards, students and teachers alike could fall victim to data breaches, phishing attempts, or other forms of cyber attack. As such, Kahoot’s developers should consider improving privacy features to ensure the safety of its users.

Potentially Inappropriate Game Joining

Another potential downside to Kahoot is the possibility of inappropriate game joining. The fact that the game code is public means that anyone can join the game, including people who have not been invited or who may have other modes for participating. This poses a significant risk, particularly in educational settings like schools or university campuses where security is paramount. The rise of online bullying and harassment has made the need for security even more pressing. Moreover, the open nature of Kahoot can potentially lead to spreading malicious content, make it inappropriate for younger audiences, and harm others. As such, it is essential to consider the crucial issue of limiting inappropriate game joining to improve security on Kahoot.

The Limits of Kahoot’s Speed

Another limitation of Kahoot is the speed of the game. The platform has a time limit per question, which can cause significant challenges for those who require more time to understand or respond to the information presented. In some cases, students might require more time to process information, or there might be technical difficulties that could lead to unexpected delays. Additionally, the time limit could cause unnecessary stress and pressure, in turn leading to students’ stunted performance or even avoidance of using Kahoot altogether.

Risks of Limited Time Per Question

The limited time per question is yet another issue that could pose real risks. It implies that students who require more time to process the information, or have disabilities to overcome, will face more challenges than others. Teachers might also find it challenging to accommodate individual differences in time using the platform. Moreover, the limited time per question could lead to incorrect answers and misinterpretation of information, which could negatively impact the learning experience in the long run. It is essential to note that education is a process of continual improvement, and robust learning is not a result of speed, but rather, active engagement with the material.

Challenges for Certain Types of Learners

The Kahoot platform is typically designed to improve engagement and create an interactive environment. However, this approach might not be suitable for all types of learners or personalities. While some learners might thrive in these interactive settings, other learners might be more introverted and require more space and individualized learning approaches. Kahoot does not cater to these kinds of learners, which can lead to feelings of discomfort, anxiety, and negative learning outcomes. It is essential to recognize that different students have different learning styles, and the use of technology should accommodate their needs.

The Downsides of Kahoot’s Accessibility

Lastly, accessibility is a significant downside of the Kahoot platform. While it is true that Kahoot provides an accessible platform for large educational settings, not all learners will have access to the technology required to participate in Kahoot. For instance, low-income students might not possess the requisite technology or have access to it at home due to limited resources. This digital divide means that some students will be unable to participate fully, leading to inequality and poor learning outcomes. Moreover, Kahoot’s platform is only accessible to those who have excellent computer skills, which puts some individuals with disabilities or those that cannot afford digital equipment at a disadvantage.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, while Kahoot has revolutionized the teaching experience and facilitated learning in many classrooms, it also has its downsides. The limitations of Kahoot’s privacy, appropriateness, speed, time per question, learner types, and accessibility should be taken into account when considering the implementation of this platform in educational settings. While it can be an excellent tool for teaching and engaging students, it is essential for educators and developers to be aware of these issues, mitigate the associated risks, and work towards creating a more inclusive and accessible learning environment.