Developing Key Competencies in Primary Education Using Modern Board Games

Abstract

This study explores the potential of modern board games to foster key competences in primary education. A total of 238 students and 17 teachers from Spain, Romania, and Greece implemented 29 board games targeting Linguistic Communication, Mathematical Competence, and Learning to Learn. The intervention included teacher training, pedagogical guides, and reflective activities. Data collection combined student and teacher questionnaires with qualitative evaluations. Results showed that students found the games enjoyable and educational, while teachers observed improvements in motivation, collaboration, and cognitive and emotional skills. Specific games were notably effective for each competence area, such as Rory’s Story Cubes for linguistic skills and Pandemic for metacognitive development. The study also highlights the importance of inclusive adaptations and practical recommendations for implementation. Findings support the value of modern board games as engaging and accessible tools to enhance competence-based learning in diverse classroom settings.