Games for Learning
There are many types of games for learning...
...simulations
...augmented reality
...commercial video games
...flash-based games
...role-playing games
...board games
It is also possible to use "gaming strategies" even when there is no specific "game" in use.
(See "A Case for a Formal Design Paradigm for Serious Games," Gunter, Kenny, & Vick)
Key Features
- engaged student participation
- expressions of constructivist pedagogy
- specific learning objectives targeted
- team work & collaboration
Advantages
Games often have a fantasy element that engages participants in learning activities through storylines.
Sample Uses
Game-based learning in Geosciences:
Role playing games - Reacting to the Past:
Virtual environments in medical education:
www.edutopia.org/online-games-simulations-teaching-tools
Outside Links
Simulations, Games, and Learning - Educause Document
Blog: Games for Learning
Video: 2010 TED Talk - Jane McGonigal: "Gaming can make a better world"
Contact: Joseph Boudreaux