The use and effectiveness of gaming techniques in educational computer software was investigated through an analysis of 170 in-depth evaluations of commercially-available educational computer programs. These evaluations, conducted by the Educational Products Information Exchange (EPIE) Institute, dealt with design attributes relevant to all…

Educational games are usually developed by copying existing recreational games and adding instructional components, or by using the intuitive preferences of the designer. However, existing games attract people through ideological value exemplifications. Moreover, whatever else they teach, games teach ideologies of either preservation, equality, or…

Clarifies appropriateness of certain simulation approaches by distinguishing between different types of simulations--experimental, predictive, evaluative, and educational--on the basis of purpose, assumptions, procedures, and criteria for evaluating. The kinds of questions each type best responds to are discussed. (65 references) (MBR)