TIES 2008 – Online Simulations and Video Games

Glenn Wiebe, ESSDACK

Saturday, Dec 6 from 12:30 – 3:30
MY Notes!

Research:
“Video games help to rewire brains”

How do we make our job essential for the survival of the student?

  • Brains search for patterns (games provide structured patterns)
  • Brains make connections best when emotional chemicals are increased. Endorphins…Non-threatening (good games make emotional connections)
  • Brains want to work with others (good games collaborative learning)

AP History – Metal of Honor (gave more emotional connection)

What are some things that make learning effective?

  • hands on
  • control the action/make choices
  • problem solving
  • active learning
  • real world application
  • student centered
  • immediate feedback
  • creativity

Glenn’s Resources

Challenges

  • Takes Time – What are you willing to give up?
  • Standards Alignment – what do you want them to learn?
  • Money – hardware, software, computer upgrades
  • Technology issues -Not enough stations, age appropriate games, apple vs. pc
  • Assessment issues – PBL rubric, participation, self eval, presentations and written work