Attentiveness to and transparency about the methodological implications of the level of analysis selected for peace and conflict exercises constitute essential elements of good game design. The article explores the impact of level of analysis choices in the context of two key portions of exercises, scenario construction and role specification. It…

Transformational games are digital computer and video applications purposefully designed to create engaging and immersive learning environments for delivering specified learning goals, outcomes and experiences. The virtual world of a transformational game becomes the social environment within which learning occurs as an outcome of the complex…

Drawing on a participatory study of the Perplex City alternate reality game, this paper considers the data obtained through participation and a detailed survey of the most engaged players, in order to determine the most engaging features and suggest methods for their transfer to educational contexts. Originally presented at a conference in 2008,…

This article presents the current development of a serious game for the simulation of massive evacuations. The purpose of this project is to promote self-protection through awareness of the procedures and different possible scenarios during the evacuation of a massive event. Sophisticated behaviors require massive computational power and it has…

In this article the staple classroom learning activities and techniques are examined exploring the following hypothesis: If the learner cannot be wooed into an activity to the extent that he actually plays it as a game, the activity is not appropriate for that particular learner and should be replaced. (Author)

Complex computer and video games may provide a vehicle, based on appropriate theoretical concepts, to transform the educational landscape. Building on the original game object model (GOM) a new more detailed model is developed to support concepts that educational computer games should: be relevant, explorative, emotive, engaging, and include…

The purpose of this state-of-the-art paper is to provide an overview of simulation ("a representation of several variables in the same arrangement as they occur in a particular natural or artificial system"), particularly as it relates to the professional preparation of school personnel. After distinguishing between "simulation" and "simulation…

Design is described as a social process and a game. Games provide an experience and environment in which aspects of design skill may be learned. Self-expression (involving no one else) and design (product must satisfy requirements imposed by others) are contrasted. Games described: JOIN, GAMBIT, URBISM, SPIEL, etc. (MLW)