Digital Games and Simulations

Comment

Comment by David Gibson on April 11, 2010 at 11:54pm

What kind of game would the students build if they had no constraints on money, production, and creative ideas? Would they make a game that teaches facts, or would they immerse the player in decision-making? It might be interesting to give them a platform for thinking about what makes different kinds of games "work" and see what they think about the challenges of geography in today's world - then see what game ideas they would come up with.

Comment by Bernie Dodge on April 11, 2010 at 5:58pm

Sounds like a great environment for teaching! I know it's just low-level place knowledge, but my grad students always have fun competing in the GeoSense game. http://www.geosense.net/.

It drives home how bereft of knowledge of geography most Americans are, even educated ones. My guys routinely get their clocks cleaned by 7th graders who are the exceptions.

There are some pretty good serious games out there to let kids experience village life, too. Next fall when I teach the class again I'll have a fresh set of links to share here.

Comment by Judith Pairan on April 11, 2010 at 5:43pm

I love integrating technology into my 9-week, 9th grade geography class. Using an interactive white board, student response systems, online videos and map practice keeps my "digital natives" interested and meets their individual learning needs. Next year, Since I will be teaching a pilot wireless, 1-1 laptop class. I am interested in finding more simulations and virtual environments. So I will appreciate any ideas and am so happy for this "site."

Comment by David Gibson on September 16, 2009 at 5:21pm

SITE 2010 is being planned right now. I'd love to hear your ideas and responses to the plans...so feel free to be in touch as I play the role of program chair for 2010 (with Bernie Dodge). Games and Simulations is a big contributor to the success of the conference.