Engaging Students in Complex Science Learning via Games and Simulations

Sunday, February 17, 2013: 1:00 PM-2:30 PM
Room 308 (Hynes Convention Center)
The declining interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education combined with the low achievement scores on science assessments have led to a number of reports and policy level initiatives to find ways to engage today’s youth in STEM education. The 2010 National Education Technology Plan, as well as a National Research Council (NRC) workshop on games and simulations, both recommend research and development exploring how simulations and games can be used to support student learning and achievement. In this symposium, researchers who are developing games and simulations to engage students in science will discuss their projects and how they are teaching and assessing authentic science content and practices aligned to the NRC's Framework for K-12 Science Education. Presentations will be followed by discussion from an expert in science education.
Organizer:
Susannah Gordon-Messer, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Co-Organizer:
Jody Clarke Midura, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Discussant:
Nancy Songer, University of Michigan
Speakers:
Shari Metcalf, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Using Blending Immersive Learning Environments To Teach Complex Causality
Susannah Gordon-Messer, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Engaging Students While Addressing Science Standards in a Multiplayer Online Game
Jody Clarke Midura, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Assessing Science Problem-Solving and Inquiry Skills in a Game-Like Environment
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