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)

Discusses the use of lightly controlled games, primarily in classes in game theory. Considers the value of such games from the viewpoint of both teaching and experimentation and discusses context; control; pros and cons of games in teaching; experimental games; and games in class, including cooperative game theory. (Author/LRW)

Uses game theory to help practitioners make decisions about educational games, simulations, or workshops whose outcomes depend to some extent on chance. Highlights include principles for making decisions involving risk; elementary laws of probability; utility theory; and principles for making decisions involving uncertainty. (eight references)…

The relationship between the concept and purpose of Paulo Freire's ideas and the instructional techniques of simulation/gaming are discussed. (MW)

GAMES INTEREST THE SOCIOLOGIST BY DEMONSTRATING MOTIVES AND BEHAVIOR THAT OCCUR IN REAL LIFE AND BY FACILITATING LEARNING THROUGH THEIR RULES, REWARDS, AND LOSSES. SOCIAL SIMULATION GAMES EXPLICITLY MIRROR CERTAIN SOCIAL PROCESSES. EXAMPLES ARE (1) THE FAMILY GAME, BETWEEN CHILD AND PARENT AND THE COMMUNITY OF CHILDREN AND PARENTS, (2) THE…

The theory and application of educational games are discussed, with the point being made that little is known for certain about their effectiveness. The game of "Manchester," dealing with the Industrial Revolution in England, is described in some detail, and 25 other games are noted. (LS)

This partially annotated bibliography on simulation and gaming contains over 1,000 citations arranged alphabetically by author's last name. Types of sources included are books, periodical articles, dissertations, and material in the ERIC system. Dates of citations range from 1956-1971 with most in the mid to late 60's. Also included is a list of…

Designed for the student of urban simulation, this paper offers definitions of "models"--conceptual or mathematics formulations of concrete things or of abstract relations between them--and of "simulation"--an act or process, conducted either by persons or devices, by which a model or a hierarchy of models is made to imitate reality. Six basic…

Game theory may be a fruitful basis for educational theory. After describing games and related concepts like "utility," the author sets up examples of how games may be used as a basis for selecting teaching strategies. For instance, a teacher may decide to change many aspects of his teaching style, rather than just one at a time, if there is a…

The heretofore implicit model underlying SIMSOC is made explicit through a comparison of the 1978 and 1972 versions of the simulation game. The more sophisticated 1978 game edition contains improvements over the earlier edition in the options for personal goals. (CMV)

Examines claimed advantages and criticisms of the use of games in the study of social conflict, differentiating the advantages and criticisms into questions of internal validity, external validity, and ecological validity. Available from: Sage Publications, Inc., 275 South Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90212. (JG)