EDIT 670 - Educational Games and Simulations (3 credits)

This course introduces theories and strategies supporting the use of educational games, simulations, and virtual environments to improve learner performance and engagement in education and training settings. A variety of tools and methodologies for building, implementing and evaluating website and mobile gaming models will be explored. Students will analyze research literature to identify key characteristics of games and simulations, promote learner reflection using collaborative game tools to clarify learners’ conceptual understanding and thinking, incorporate game tools to promote learning and creativity, utilize game tools to address the diverse needs of all learners, analyze and apply instructional game and simulation theories to games developed in class, analyze commercial games and simulations to identify key characteristics and technical, practical, and pedagogical limitations; develop game evaluation rubrics, and collaborate with others using game tools and resources to support learner success and innovation. Course assessment includes a learning journal, forum discussions, homework assignments, and a group project. F