In a unique and engaging approach to education, a middle school social studies teacher has sneakingly incorporated Assassin’s Creed into his lessons to teach students about history.
The creative teaching method, which recently went viral, was shared on the social media site, TikTok, by the teacher, Mr. Mahathey, who used Assassin’s Creed Odyssey tin a class about Ancient Greece.
The video showcases Mr. Mahathey using the 2018 game to give a virtual tour of historical locations in Greece. He used it to explain strategic defensive positions and the significance of various ancient structures. This resulted in a history lesson that demonstrated the potential of video games as educational tools.
@mrmahathey Nothing like using Assassin’s Creed to teach the Battle of Thermopylae #fyp #foryou #assassinacreed #odyssey #teacher #history #historyteacher #middleschoolteacher
The decision to use Assassin’s Creed, a franchise known for its detailed historical settings and accuracy, was met with enthusiasm by the internet. Viewers praised the teacher for creating an engaging learning environment and making history accessible and relatable to students. Comments on the video highlighted the effectiveness of using 3D models and immersive worlds to enhance understanding and retention of historical facts.
Assassin’s Creed has been recognized for its maniacal commitment to historical accuracy as well as blending real-world historical events and real-life figures with fiction. Over the years, it has explored various periods, including Ancient Egypt, the American Revolution, and now Ancient Greece with Odyssey. The game’s portrayal of historical events and locations offers a unique opportunity for educators to complement traditional teaching methods with interactive experiences.
The game’s detailed reconstruction of Notre Dame in Assassin’s Creed Unity came in handy in the cathedral’s recovery planning after an unfortunate fire. Additionally, Assassin’s Creed Origins includes a meticulously detailed but speculative representation of the Great Pyramid of Giza, specifically its internal structure. In particular, the design supported several theories about the pyramid’s construction. Its developers worked with historians and incorporated speculative elements that have since been validated by new archaeological discoveries. This discovery highlights the potential of video games as a medium for exploring and presenting historical theories.
Ubisoft itself has recognized the educational potential of the franchise. It has developed the Discovery Tour mode for the Assassin’s Creed series for this very purpose. This mode allows players to explore historical settings without the combat and storyline, focusing exclusively on the educational content. The company has even provided a curriculum for educators, further supporting the use of video games in the classroom.
Mr. Mahathey’s viral TikTok video exemplifies a growing trend among educators to use the available technology to them and media in teaching. In doing so, teachers can create a dynamic learning experience that captures students’ interest and enhances their understanding of history.
Ubisoft most recently released Assassin’s Creed Mirage, a back-to-the-roots entry set in 9th-century Baghdad. The next slate of games in the franchise will be set in feudal Japan, Ancient China, and 16th Century Europe.
