Long Term Games with Long Term People
Games make English class more fun. In our classes, my students and I often play rock paper scissors. If they win, they pick the next prompt; if I win, I do. In the end, the lesson is the same, but students enjoy the sense of autonomy. For me, playing games has lead to some interesting observations.
Firstly, I noticed students react differently to competition. Some like to win, some are afraid to lose, and some are even afraid to win against the teacher. Notably, some of my students are willing to win dishonestly. For example, they might wait to see my "rock" before covering it with a delayed "paper." I understand the desire to win, but it is a losing strategy for the swindler. Let's explore why.
Tit-for-Tat
In Game theory, there is a strategy called Tit-for-Tat. In Tit for Tat games, mutual honesty is the default starting point. After that, the players will mimic the other player's previous strategy. (If you cheat me, then I'll cheat you) In theory, cooperation produces greater long-term benefits for both players. Last week, a student's actions confirmed my support of this theory.
Chris, a kindergartener from Shanghai, has class with me every Wednesday. Last Wednesday, After a tense stalemate of identical draws, Chris broke through and smashed my scissor with a rock. Instantly, he broke into a gigantic smile and explained how he predicted my hand. I was grateful Chris was willing to reveal his winning strategy to me.
At that moment, Chris gained a lot of trust from me. And although we were competing, we are really on the same team, because we both want to enjoy more games together. His act of generosity made me want to play more games with him. Compare this with the dishonest students who sneak out delayed hands; who would you like to play with again?
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best way to win a game is to make sure other people play with you again. The long-term benefits of multiple games and compounding trust far outweigh the short-term high of a stolen win.
Recommended Podcast:
https://nav.al/long-term