naclark

Many times throughout the semester, we have discussed the pedagogy of the seminar-style classroom, in which we participate week in, week out. I have done something similar here by examining a game called "Gravity Patrol" and its potential for effective use in an educational context at the upper-elementary level.

Teacher Prep: As far as I can see, there is nothing in this game that is specifically geared toward teacher preparation. However, while I certainly see teacher training as an important aspect for effective implementation in regard to certain games/simulation/MUVEs, I do not believe it would be necessary for this game. It is fairly self-explanatory and the teacher can read the game instructions to get a basic idea on the premise of the game.

Class Size: Because this game is not multi-user interactive, class size is more or less irrelevant to this game. Students read the instructions for themselves, answer questions about physics (weight, mass, and gravity), and play the game individually. Thus, class size should not be a factor in the implementation of this game, with the exception of any form of evaluation the teacher might want to use.

Learner Engagement: This game, while somewhat useful, lacks “pedagogical depth.” It was created for a “niche purpose.” The only concepts studied/learned from this game are weight, mass, and gravity.

Infrastructure: Because this game is web based, the platform used by schools/students is irrelevant. The game’s rather simplistic design – and, therefore, the ability to be web-based – is a strength of the game, because it is available to multiple platforms.