Gaming and Simulation

What is a Game? :

What is a Game? According to Wikipedia, a game is a structured activity, usually undertaken for enjoyment and sometimes used as an educational tool. Games are distinct from work; however, many games are considered to be work. Key components of games are goals, rules, challenge, and interaction.

What is a Simulation? :

What is a Simulation? According to Wikipedia, a simulation is the imitation of some real thing, state of affairs, or process. The act of simulating something generally entails representing certain key characteristics or behaviors of a selected physical or abstract system.

Why Do We Need Games/Simulations in the Classroom? :

The immediate need (felt and anticipated) is to incorporate lessons that use technology while addressing various learning styles, levels of motivation, and academic levels. Educational games and simulations are new technological vehicles for education because they provide a form of assessment, problem-based learning, a fail-safe environment, and a highly motivational learning environment. Many students consider themselves “gamers” and positively associate with games (more on this in a minute).