Web Adventures are a set of games, developed by the Rice University Center for Technology in Teaching and Learning. They are interactive games and simulations under the address http://webadventures.rice.edu. There are five themes: MedMyst for infectious diseases, N-Squad about alcohol impact, Reconstructors about substance abuse, CSI about forensics, and Cool Science Careers as a virtual apprenticeship game. Teachers can search for learning objectives to integrate appropriate games into their lessons, or create stand-alone units. The article shows examples for each of the five game categories, and states that they align to many of the National Science Education Standards as well as to several National Health Education Standards.
This digital tool for learning applies to NETS-S in the categories 1 c "use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues, and also 5 a "advocate and practice safe, legal, and responsible use of information and technology", and 5 b "exhibit a positive attitude toward using technology that supports...learning...".
This website makes use of our young generation's being accustomed to be "plugged in". I really like the idea to have a new media tool to change up a science class, and tap into well developed games that align with education standards. Obviously students are enthusiastic about this online tool, as well as teachers. It seems to be easy to use as a teacher, to search for certain science concepts and find a fitting game. I am sure this will have great benefits to use in a class room for me as well, as a prospective science teacher!
Bowling, K., & Miller L. (2012). Web Adventures: Explore science one game at a time. Leading and Learning with Technology, 39 (6), 34-35
Hi Astrid! Wow, those games sound like they are very cool. As I was reading, I felt like I wanted to play those games myself! I can imagine that students would much rather play a game to learn about infectious diseases than they would want to read about them in a textbook. These games seem like a great way to painlessly provide students with science material.
ReplyDeleteHi Astrid!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed your reflection on this particular article; I found this use of technology to be creative and beneficial to the students. I specifically like that it is geared towards science and found the games on alcohol and well-being to be interesting. Today, health classes in education tend to be filled with out-dated videos and dry lesson plans. I think that by positively utilizing technology such as with these games, an extremely important subject for adolescents to learn can be brought back to life!
Seems like a very updated and exciting way to learn material students are typically hesitant towards!