Games, simulations, and virtual worlds

Games, simulations, and virtual worlds? provide learners with an opportunity to engage in an immersive and interactive environment that requires knowledge, decision making, and information

management skills. Check out the demo versions of games and simulations at LavaMind ) and choose one to play. In your discussion, identify the game you

played and answer the following questions about the game:
? What types of learning outcomes can be achieved through playing the game?
? Are there particular academic disciplines where the game and/or simulation would be most effective? What about particular learning styles?
? What support is needed by faculty to integrate the game and/or simulation in their course?
? Did you learn anything?
The use of games, simulations, and virtual environments is still controversial, as their association with play and fun is often considered non-educational. In addition to answering the above

questions, discuss how willing you would be to implement experiential learning in your course. Why or why not?

Opinions concerning the impact of technology on teaching and learning are divided. Review the Visible Knowledge Project (https://blogs.commons.georgetown.edu/vkp/) blog to see the results

of their collaborative project that explored the impact of technology on learning. Then share your opinion about the impact of technology with your classmates by addressing the following

questions:
? Does the use of technology help students achieve learning goals?
? Does the use of technology change student engagement in learning inside and outside of class?
? Does the use of technology change teaching behaviors and practices?
? Does the use of technology improve teaching effectiveness and efficiency?