I suppose I am not really lost....just trying to learn more, to fill in the gaps of my knowledge.....
Play This, Learn That is based on a free enhanced audio e-book that explores commercial videos and their use in the classroom.
While I am familiar with a few simulations for use in higher education , I am not as familiar with those for K-12, so this free training fills a gap in my knowledge base.
So far I have explored two video games.
Kerbal Space Program is a space flight simulator. Players control a fledgling space program at the dawn of the space age, similar to the US or USSR in the 60s or China and other countries in the 90s. Players are given a working spaceport with assembly buildings, research facilities, a training campus, and all of the trappings of mid-century NASA.
This simulation takes place on a planet called Kerbin, with a race of little green, minion-like, characters called Kerbals who all share the last name Kerman. As rockets are built, Kerbals are recruited to man the rocket, and missions are successful if the Kerbals fly the rocket, land, complete their assigned tasks, and return home.
This video provides a quick overview:
The primary mode of play is Science Mode where players begin with a limited set of technologies and resources. As they complete missions, players earn more spendable science credits or points that can be used to research and select new technologies for future missions. Early on, vehicles must be controlled manually. However, after multiple mission successes different guidance and stabilization systems can be unlocked and applied to future spacecraft. Each successive mission increases future science and technology. Players build on successes and develop a need and understanding of each subsequent technology.
Science mode is designed with the new player in mind, breeding many opportunities for simple successes and acquisition of new technologies in a graduated and personally selected way.
The game has different game modes as well. Career Mode lets players control more of the business of space flight. Players build, expand, and manage their own space center, taking on missions and researching new technologies.
Players can even build and play in Sandbox mode if they are interested in flying and discovering the Kerbal universe without restrictions. The Internet is filled with examples of incredible Kerbal creativity generated in this mode. With all of the tools and abilities at your disposal, this mode makes it possible.
KerbalEdu also includes a mission library, editor, and sharing capability. You can select missions (described as contracts or quests) that align directly with age level (5-18+), subject (math, physics, astronomy, engineering, technology, other science), and mission type. The mission library of pre-made lessons can even include lesson plans, if included by the teacher.
Making History II: the War of the World allows players to change history. The following video explains this far better than I can:
I have two or weeks of training to complete - and more simulations to explore - but these simulations have been fascinating, allowing me to see what is available in K-12...and beyond. Entire assignments could be built around these simulations, and assignments do not have to be limited to physics, math engineering, or history. Students could use these to explore leadership or craft narratives about their experiences, improving storytelling skills.
How will I use these in this course of gamification? These have a number of uses, ranging from examples of simulations to being pieces of pathways. As I a just getting started with reviewing video games, I am am sure more possibilities will open up as I complete these quests in 3D GameLab.
What's next? I plan to finish the remaining training in 3DGL then return to Histoire. I also want to make a note to look for the research on using such simulations....while looking for hose appropriate to the business and industry sector for other training.
I am happy to be learning!
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