Session 9
1. Define the terms "Game" and "Simulation" as they relate to eLearning.
Games and simulations allow users to practice tasks and skills while having fun. However, they always serve a purpose. They teach something first and entertain second. Learning games build on established tendencies to arouse curiosity and competitive urges. Simulations allow learners to verify that they can perform specific tasks.
2. What are the key characteristics of a Simulation?
Simulations allow learners to verify that they can perform specific tasks. It enables types of learning not practical in classrooms.
3. What are some of the strengths or advantages of Games and Simulations in eLearning?
Games and simulations can be good because it allows the learners to learn from their mistakes without the permanent consequences. They also allow learners to simplify complex tasks and test different hypotheses.
4. What are some of the weaknesses or disadvantages of Games and Simulations in eLearning?
A disadvantage can be that it may take the focus away from the main objectives and goals.
5. Explain the term, "Gamification" and explain how this concept might apply to eLearning.
Gamification is the use of game thinking and mechanics in non-game contexts to engage users in solving problems. This concept can apply to eLearning by making the content more appealing for the user. Students may be able to earn badges or level-up as they read through content and answer questions, making the learning more engaging.
6. Pick a topic and describe a game or a simulation or gamification concept that would be effective.
The topic could be using the order of operations in solving mathematical equations. The users could receive points for answering each question correctly and the difficulty of the questions would increase as the user moved up through the levels. The user could move forward with the game until they answer three questions incorrectly. Tips could be shown after a question is answered incorrectly. The high scores would show up at the end.
Is your game approach like a game show?
ReplyDeleteI was thinking along a more linear approach, but designing it to resemble a game show in which the user has the option to choose what topic or difficulty would be a good idea. In this way, the game would be more interactive and could be more engaging. The choice of difficulty could also offer more points as it is increased, like in some popular game shows.
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