Should Games Be Integrated Into Instruction?
Educators are considering this question more seriously as virtual software are being created for use in education. The video above takes a serious look at the question. Innovators in this field of technology and educators share their views on virtual games in the classroom. Mckinley Technology High School in Washington, D.C. is highlighted as a school that makes virtual software a priority in instruction.
What Is Simulation Software?
Simulation software essentially provides learners with choices of tasks and when to complete them. Simulations can be physical (users control what happens on the screen) or iterative (users control the frequency and speed of simulations). The purpose of simulations are to teach students a procedure or experiencing an unfamiliar situation. Students have opportunities to create products, extend learning at their speed and interest level, and solve authentic problems. Uses of this software includes virtual field trips and experiments that in reality would take days or months to see changes or enhance experiences provided.
McKinley Technology High School Example
The video used McKinley Technology High School in Washington, D.C. as an example of a school that relies on simulation software. The principal explained that it was the goal of the school to produce students who were, "No longer consumers of technology, but rather, designers of technology." This vision allows students to make their education more personalized. The students created software, advised authors of software, such as the Federation of American Scientists on games created and how they could be improved. Students stated that they were motivated to learn because of this approach.
Supporters of Simulation Software in Education
Proponents of simulated software argue that students are more engaged in their learning experience. One speaker connects boys having the hardest time learning. Rather than a cause of behavior problems being ADHD, the child may need to be stimulated more during learning. If incorporated in the school, virtual games may provide that needed stimulation.
People Still "On The Fence" About Simulation Software
Some people are cautious about using virtual games in their curriculum. The thought of a video game is a relatively new concept in school. There are still educators who think games should be kept out of education. They are concerned that simulations can be misused or provide inaccurate examples of real-life experiences.
Really??
I am very open to the possibilities that the simulation software can provide my students. I can see how the LoTi levels would increase to a 4-6 with these experiences. The students could have access to outside resources and a "real-world" problem and solve that problem without leaving the classroom. This could save money for the school by not going on a field trip or provide the resources that I don't have at/near my school. There was one comment at the end of this video made about the day every school incorporates virtual games in their curriculum. The speaker claimed, "the best teacher in the world would be on every desktop." Really?? Who is going to analyze software and make sure it is appropriate and useful for the content learned? Who is going to provide background information regarding the content and software? The Teacher - I know that I can be the "best teacher in the world" if I provide as many experiences and resources as possible for my students. Gaming software should be considered as one of those experiences if available.
Examples of Simulation Software
SimCity - http://www.simtropolis.com/
Oregon Trail - http://oregontrail.com/hmh/site/oregontrail/
The Stock Market Game - http://www.smg2000.org/
Gizmos for Math And Science - http://www.explorelearning.com/
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