In this article, we provide a commentary on the current state of gamification in higher education by reviewing the research literature, noting a lack of research focused on the design of gamified postsecondary courses. To address this issue, we discuss four potential pitfalls instructors may encounter when designing gamified learning activities.…

There is growing interest in the use of virtual gaming worlds in education, supported by the increased use of multi-user virtual environments (MUVEs) and massively multi-player online role-playing games (MMORPGs) for collaborative learning. However, this paper argues that collaborative gaming worlds have been in use much longer and are much wider…

Riddles designed to measure Spanish-English bilingualism are presented. The riddles are given in three forms: (1) the background material in English with the answer required in Spanish, (2) the background material and answers in English, and (3) only answers given, either in English or Spanish. The riddles are useful as classroom language…

"Juegos comunicativos," a software program designed for use with the Apple IIe, IIc, or II+, emphasizes "communicative" computer-assisted Spanish language learning through five educational games. The program uses Spanish vocabulary and structures to solve "problems" rather than the standard drill-and-practice format.…

The game of chess is recommended as a school activity. In addition to requiring that individuals become actively involved in a mentally demanding competition, its effects are stimulating, wholesome, and healthy. Several benefits accrue from the teaching and promoting of chess in schools. Chess limits the element of luck (teaching the importance of…

This paper is intended as a guide for the use and development of simulation games in the classroom. To justify the use of such games at a time when the public is demanding a return to "the basics," the paper cites 30 ways in which simulations can contribute to student learning, including the following: (1) simulations help to motivate students;…

Discussion of the difference between an educational simulation and other interactive learning events highlights the effects terminology can have on both facilitators and participants. Five common mistakes made in running simulations are identified, and gaming terminology used in Britain and in the United States is discussed. (three references)…

The advantages and disadvantages of simulations in consumer education are summarized and guidelines presented to teachers on developing their own games. Four specific game topics are suggested. (SJL)

Several computer games are reviewed with respect to how they might be used within the classroom. The games detailed represent "families" that progress from the introduction of a concept to advanced games that help develop it. (MP)

Discusses student difficulties with probability concepts and argues that a key difficulty is the lack of transferability of pupils' curriculum-based knowledge. Presents several probability game activities to help students with these difficulties. (MKR)

Games can provide a vehicle for helping primary grade children develop mathematical ideas in a practical, concrete form in which they talk about mathematics and enjoy it. (MNS)

Reviews the rationale for the use of simulation and game exercises as part of counselor education programs. Counselor competencies in the areas of knowledge, skills, and self-awareness are discussed; and the use of experience-based learning activities is explained, including the debriefing stage. (Contains three references.) (LRW)

Creative teaching, which involves creating innovative lessons, games, materials, and assignments to challenge students, can be stimulated in teacher education students by stirring up their thinking and encouraging them to explore different paths. Two thematic concepts which underlie creative teaching are "reflective teaching" which…

Definitional questions are raised first, followed by discussion of simulations and their place in the mathematics classroom. Variety and classification are discussed, plus some comments on designing simulations. (MNS)

Makes a case for adventure and fantasy computer games as encouraging development of problem-solving skills and organizational abilities and for fostering reading comprehension. Suggests ways of incorporating these games into classroom activities. (RBW)