Simulation and Gaming
I enjoyed sampling the simulations and gaming software we all shared via the URLs. I’m sure we all got to experience that sense of engaged excitement that justifies the use of this type of software with students in the classroom. I find it interesting that the environment one lives in conditions them for a different way of learning. Students today are raised in a more interactive style of learning. They have come to learn by observing and doing while in years past it was learn by simply observing. J.C Hertz, as cited by Jerry Seay (1997) states it best, “But whereas TV turned kids of the fifties and sixties into a nation of screen watchers, videogames have created a cadre of screen manipulators.” Simulations and gaming can be a powerful learning tool when it is properly used. I can definitely empathize with the average primary aged student who has been born into a world of Jillian’s and Dave and Buster’s yet when they get to school they are handed a bland way (in comparison) of learning the curriculum.
References
Alessi, S.M. & Trollip, S.R. (2001). Multimedia for learning: Methods and development. Massachusetts: Allyn and Bacon.
Higgins, G.A. Playing Games to Learn Complex Skills: Computer Simulation for Medic Training. Visions 2020 Report . p. 41 – 44.
Seay, J. (1997). Education and simulation/gaming computers: An eductaor’s encounter. Technology and Education. Retrieved November 14, 2007, from http://www.cofc.edu/~seay/cb/simgames.html
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8 comments:
Lori,
You are so right! We all have a tendancy to teach the way we were taught - and we were all taught by "screen watchers". I grew up in the era of Pac-Man and Frogger, so I consider myself a generation gapper - I got my first game console - an Intellivision (the controller looked like a cross between a calculator and a telephone) when I was in first grade. An Atari 2600 followed, and then was eventually replaced by a Nintendo, Super Nintendo, N64, and GameCube. This Christmas, it's going to be an X-Box 360 (I just can't get in tune with the Wii controllers - so I'm jumping the Nintendo ship). But the point to all of this is that we are going to have to realize that until we teach to the strengths of student learning, we are never going to get their attention - becuase it will be all tied up in the new game system that's waiting for them at home.
Hi Lori-
This goes back to the digital natives as opposed to the digital immigrant discussion. You are so right about students being exposed to a wide variety of media and interactions outside of school. When they hit the campus they are sometimes expected to sit quietly in their seats and absorb every word we say. Thankfully this is changing and students are being given more control over their learning.
I love the quote your post referenced. The kids do see themselves as manipulators and not passive watchers and it is easy to see how education must change in order to capitalize on this.
Lori,
Nice posting, I agree with all your statements, enjoy been in class with you, hope to see you again in other course.
Lekan
Heather,
I couldn't agree with you more.
Becky,
Yes, change is slowly abounding. It gets better and better as more educators stop resisting and join in.
Meredith,
Puppets. The children are no more than puppets; sad but true commentary. Its ironic, too, that in 2007 after all that has been researched and supported by notably theorists like Piaget and Vygotsky the traditional way of teaching is still more prevalent.
Lekan,
Thanks a bunch. It has been a pleasure working with you also. If I don't get the opportunity to work with you in a future class, perhaps I'll catch you on a whim in IM one day. Take care.
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