Module+1+Introduction

=Videogames and Simulations in the Classroom= =Module 1: Introduction= Welcome to the //Video Games and Simulations in the Classroom// course! We think this will be one of the most fun courses you have ever taken! We all know that students today have grown up immersed in a digital environment, and the over-arching purpose of this class is to determine how we as teachers can tap into some of the tools and informal learning they are getting through games and simulations. As we work through this course, please don't feel like you have to be a gamer yourself to be able to use games to improve student learning. In past courses we've talked about technology as an **instructional partner**, and this is how we'll be approaching games and simulations as well. Think first of student learning needs and second of how those needs could be met by bringing an instructional partner into your classroom. Most importantly, have a great time learning in this course!!

Essential Questions:
Why videogaming? Can a "non-gamer" teacher capitalize on digital natives' immersion in gaming culture to improve student learning in their classroom?

Reading Assignment:
Prensky (//Don't Bother Me Mom -- I'm Learning!//), ch. 1-6, pp. 1-62

Activities:
Definitions game Word List for Games Crossword: modding wimax LAN parties fantasy sports games anime large scale gaming competitions ARG online people finding avatar third person component video cable patch console grid computing real time strategy emoticon turtling MMORPGs S video cable wiki GUI machinima cheat code composite video cable stalking peer to peer wifi power up podcast wireless gaming easter eggs respawning wikipedia twinking level editor online reputation system logical programming languages first person smurfing webcam blog

Gaming Journal: In OC, you will each have a "gaming journal" in the Online Discussion area. For your first forum, create a forum titled "Introduction." Discuss in **Journal Entry 1** what games (any type) you have enjoyed throughout your life and what you have learned from them. Thinking back, can you identify times you've learned through play?


 * = Module 1: Introduction ||= Module 2: Digital Game-Based Learning ||= Module 3: Let's Play! ||= Module 4: Anchoring Games to Standards ||= Module 5: Designing Instruction and Assessing Learning ||