The conclusion in this case is that games be effectively used
to develop interest and motivate learners but they have limited
use in supporting specific learning goals and objectives,
especially for adult learners. As a consequence, as with the
other two cases, game-based learning should be considered a
far-term and not yet mature technology. Finally, it is worth
mentioning that the use of the phrase ‘serious games’ to refer
to game-based learning does disservice to educators and to
educational research. That phrase suggests more than is being
delivered and probably more than can be delivered by the
game-based learning community. It also raises unrealistic
expectations about the nature of learning and education.
Learning is not always fun and education should not be considered
a game-like enterprise. The more descriptive phrase
‘game-based learning’ is appropriate and preferable if one
wishes to avoid confusion and false expectations.