Educational Gameplay and Simulation Environments: Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Recent research from Canada is collected here, shedding light on techniques for design and use of educational games and simulations, especially in the area of health-related learning. The papers are based on research arising from Canada's Simulation and Advanced Gaming Environments (SAGE) for Learning Project (2003-2008), and cover theoretical, social, and practical issues. Chapters are in sections on foundations and theory, design and prototyping, learning efficacy, and game shell and game creation. Sample topics include the role of narrative in educational games and simulations, gender and digital gameplay, designing a simulation for teaching ethical decision making, the use of virtual reality in psychology research, and games for children with long-term health problems. B&w illustrations and screenshots are included. The book's readership includes researchers, designers, teachers, health professionals, and technicians. Kaufman is affiliated with Simon Fraser University, Canada. Sauve is affiliated with Tele-universite, Canada. Annotation c2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)