Introduction to digital game-based learning (P01546)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : EDU-P-P01546

This course will introduce participants to the application of computer-based games, narrative and role play in educational settings. As this is a developing field, with more potential than current manifestation, an inclusive definition of game-based learning will be used. The course will consider actual and potential application of existing commercial games in educational settings, games that have been specifically created with educational objectives in mind, and a wider array of practices in experiential learning that can broadly be described as game-informed. In parallel with this practical emphasis the course will provide a theoretical context for the relationships between games, play and learning.

? Keywords : e-learning

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : An introduction to digital environments for learning (P01038)

? Costs : Students will be required to have regular access to a networked computer, and will be responsible for providing their own computing equipment and consumables. Broadband is recommended.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Education, (The Moray House School of Education, Schedule C)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Semester 1 (Blocks 1-2)

? Additional Class Information : The course is delivered flexibly and online.

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course, participants will:

understand the features, terminology, history and taxonomy of computer-based games

be able critically to evaluate a range of games and game environments through direct experience and immersion

be able to evaluate and critically assess the relation between play, games and learning in formal and informal settings

be able to describe original approaches to using the potential of game-based learning in their own practice.

Assessment Information

Assessment of the course will be based on three elements:

1) Weblog. In the context of the exploratory nature of the course, participants will keep a reflective diary of their readings, game experiences and Web researches, as a weblog to be shared with their tutor. (40%)

2) Report. Participants will either:
a) write a review of an educationally directed game activity, or
b) write a description of how a commercial, recreationally directed game might be used to promote learning in a formal, informal or non-formal educational setting, or
c) write a review of a Website on the topic of educational games or gaming.

This written report will be a maximum of 1000 words. (30%)

3) Game design. Participants will create a simple scenario for a game (with or without dependency on digital technologies) directed towards the promotion of some specified learning outcome. The description of this game scenario will be a maximum of 2000 words. (30%)