EDUCATIONAL MODELING, SIMULATIONS, & GAMES

digital natives

2009-04-20T11:38:00.003-04:00

Yes, also see Prensky 2001, in which he mentioned the "digital natives"- K through college "kids" today- has already played over 10,000 hours of video games before they graduate from colleges. He also mentioned that there are scientific evidence that indicate the neuron system in their brain is different from us (digital immigrants). Therefore, they think FUNDAMENTALLY differently than us, not incrementally. Therefore, the old theories of teaching and learning may not work for them any more. Then, should we develop completely new theories and approaches for them to address their needs of parallel process, multi-task, random access, graphic, immediate gratification and frequent feedback?

Game news

2009-04-20T09:53:00.002-04:00

Hi all,

I see a news about game.
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/gamehunters/post/2009/04/65719049/1

It gave us some statistics about how many kids play games - 88%. Boys played 14 hours per week, and girls play 9 hours. So, it is kind of a solid evidence that kids spent time on games.

Unfortunately, this report is showing some negatives - additive behavior. However, there are still some interesting questions for us. This research pointed out some attention problems with kids. Why? Maybe it is related to the kind of games they played. If that is the case, maybe we can minimize those kind of games design in educational games.

Victor

Facebook and education

2009-04-14T17:01:00.002-04:00

Hi,

I saw a news about a study examining the effect of Facebook on Grade (sounds like the study presented in AERA). It is interesting, but the result is within expectation.

http://www.technewsworld.com/story/Study-on-Facebook-and-Grades-Becomes-Learning-Experience-for-Researcher-66805.html

I think one contribution from this research is that Facebook does take up valuable study time from college students.

So? What is the next question?

One piece of statistics is quite interesting: the Facebook users spend 1-5 hours a week studying comparing to non-Facebook users spending 11-15 hours a week studying. Does it mean that Facebook took students 10 hours a week of studying time? I guess probably not. Those students will still find other ways to kill time. But, what really contributing the differences?

VR in college education

2009-03-29T00:00:00.002-04:00

I see a news about VR in college education that I would like to share with you:

http://blogs.computerworld.com/harvards_virtual_education_experiment_in_second_life

I like that the comparison between Second Life and normal distance education and text-based discussion.

I will not write too much now so that I won't interfere with your perspectives.

Crokpot Tech

2009-03-28T15:46:00.002-04:00

In the Crokpot Tech article, the author described many different possibilities to utilize Second Life in learning contexts. For example, training, collaboration, and networking are some possible ways to utilize Second Life. The author also suggested that 3D and anonymity can have positive effects on learning outcomes.

What are some concerns with virtual world training? Transfer should be an important issue. For example, if medical students are trained in virtual world, are they going to be able to transfer the skills in the hospitals or clinics. If not, how can we bridge the training to help transfer?

Language training is interesting when done in virtual world. We know culture and language is closely related. Will the culture in the virtual be the same as the culture in the real-world? If not, what other factors that we should consider when we decide language training in the virtual world.

Virtual world creates a very different networking environment for the people to get together. We know that many people visit the virtual world, such as Second Life, very often. This kind of social networking opportunities are almost impossible for distributed teams without the virtual world.

The 3D aspects of virtual world are something that can be specific in the virtual world environment. The question is how 3D effect interacts with the virtual reality.

Anonymity is another specific characteristic in virtual world. As Deniz suggested that anonymity can help students with specific needs to learn in some environments. However, will anonymity negatively affect other types of students? For example, would a high achieving students, or popular students, behave differently in the virtual world? How can we balance the effects dealing with learning in virtual world.

Cannon-Bowers & Bowers (2008)

2009-03-28T13:04:00.002-04:00

Cannon-Bowers & Bowers (2008) is a very good review piece. It provides some good definitions of game, simulation and virtual reality. They suggested that "the constructions of game and simulation are not orthogonal" (p.318). I agree with that, especially when simulation is defined as a "working representation of reality" (p.318). Game can be a working representation of reality (although it may not have to be). Indeed, many games we play such as SimCity, Monopoly, or even chess, can be seen as some kind of representations of reality.

This article also provided some advantages of using games and simulation. For example, games and simulations can be used to provide practice environments for practice which is too dangerous or too costly to provide. We can also embedded instructional features such as feedback in the games and simulations. The authors also review some empirical literature regarding to the effectiveness of games installations. It is a very good source of references. The authors not only show the positive results of games simulations, but also provided a list of studies which show negative results of SLEs.

Finally, the authors suggested different factors that influence SLE design. For example, learner characteristics such a self-efficacy, goal orientation, spatial ability, and comfort with technology may affect the SLE design. This list of factors may serve as a checklist when we decide SLEs.

What is learning?

2009-03-25T15:32:00.001-04:00

I create this thread for all us to post our answers.

About Second Life

2009-03-25T14:10:00.002-04:00

Hi all,

After yesterday class, probably most of you realize that I am skeptical about the use of virtual reality. I am thinking the same question over and over again: what additional benefit we get from virtual reality than what we can get from other medium such as simulation program, and communication software (e.g. Marratech/Skype). I come up with some answers and I will share in the second part of this message. Now, I first shared my experience in Second Life this morning.

Kathy's presentation suggested that we can visit Morocco in Second Life and I questioned what good about visiting Morocco virtually. We can see picture, watch live video of Morocco over the internet. Deniz suggested that it was the interaction. I guess we can also have some "first hand experience" if we use the virtual reality. So, I went there (I hope I went to the right place). It is a small island. I saw two people: one man (with two guns), and one lady (naming herself sexy something). Then, the lady comes to talk to me. I am scared. You don't talk to stranger (at least it is something I learned in kindergarten), especially in an unfamiliar place. So, I did not response. One thing I learn - there may be some etiqutte in virtual reality. It is important to learn. Also, the general culture is different in virtual world. So, many factors that affect learning may change. For example, gender may have an effect on some learning outcomes (I really don't know, but I guess there may be). Now, we don't even know the lady who talked to me is actually a male or a female. What I would like to say here: if culture matters in learning, now, we have a totally new space with a "new culture". Maybe each island has its own culture. So, culture can be a manipulatable variable in virtual reality. It is something interesting to investigate. Of course, what will happen if you don't have a clue about the new culture. Then, what will happen? I was an example in virtual Morocco. I fled.

Then, I went to the democracy island - as some of you may know, I am a politics junky. So, that is an interesting island for me. It looks like a museum with computer screen that I can click virtually. Information shows up. Actually, some screens direct me to an actual web site with more information. I see the advantage of the feeling of visiting a museum when I was in the virtual world. Even though we can have all the information (such as pictures and video clips) in a web site, we may not able to re-create the feeling of visiting a real museum. For me, I feel motion sickness when I see the screen moving. So, I still prefer a plan web site. It is just my personaly issue.

In conclusion, I think there are real benefit of virtual reality in learning. I think Dawley has started one very good research path - the social persistence. Will the virtual reality help people to immerse in the environment longer and deeper (I already use the word immerse which implies a positive answer)? Cultural effect will be an interesting phenomenon because the culture can be totally different in the virutal world. Also, people can visit one place and then to the next place with a different culture in seconds. How will it affect learning? Of course, the opportunity for interactions in VR is probably positive for learning. However, how can we design the enviornment to foster positive interactions in virtual reality? I am not skeptical about the effect of VR, but I see a lot of unknown (research opportunities). However, my problem with motion sickness may still prevent me to visit the virtual world too much (or at least walking/flying too fast in VR).

Mark's Alessi/Trollip Ch 9 thoughts

2009-03-23T13:39:00.002-04:00

I like that this chapter opens with the fact that these tools are more "uncategorized" but still constructivist. That allowed me to read more "freely" without concern of mentally placing each tool into a specific category. My main thoughts as I read this chapter were: "Wow, this sounds like fun," "I really want to try that," "I'd really like to produce something like that for rainforest ecology in Madagascar," and "How can I used this in class..."

It was also good to see another perspective on "microworlds" (other than the paper we read). This sure does seem like a great tool for online classes (and other settings), but I'm still trying to see the difference between this and virtual reality. Learning tools are also discussed, and I like that they are touted as both assisting with learning AND a type of assessment tool (thought they don't give the details about how to assess or if you're comparing to an expert's tool output). I also appreciated that "dreamweaver" was included in multimedia construction tools. That is, we don't have to build the framework for new tools or even hire people to make us tools; many are already around, and we just have to find creative ways to use them! Have students build (constructivist) webpages or presentations or concept maps using PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop, etc. Then, the class would consist of teaching the technology (as a tool) in order to get "output" from the student; then it comes down to the assessment of that output (compare to expert model or peer models?).

The second half of the chapter focuses on Open Learning Environments (OLEs)--programs that permit learning in a natural and flexible way. They can accomplish a variety of goals and are used in conjunction with other learning materials (p327). These are supposed to be most useful for the "guiding and practicing" phases of instruction (though can be used for presenting and assessing as well). As the went into examples of OLEs, I couldn't help but think "isn't this just a Wiki" when reading the CSILE section. Anybody else think that? The only difference seemed to be that entries/posts in CSILE had to be labeled as "opinion, fact, question" or other labels.

Overall, this chapter seemed less about theory, and more about some practical tools to try out (that are flexible and don't fit in other categories).

Directed Learning and Open-ended Learning

2009-03-20T00:33:00.004-04:00

Alessi (Chap 9) argued that Open-ended learning environment lies between directed learning and open-ended learning. Each forming extreme ends of a continuum.

Sadly, most of higher education classroom instruction falls under directed learning in which the method of instruction are delivered systematically with careful sequencing to elicit correct learner actions. The learning goals are set. This is a very teacher-centered approach where teacher is a sage!!!

In contrast, open-ended learning allows learners to set goals and pursue methods learners deem appropriate and set own problems to solve. therefore, it should be noted that Alessi argued if all aspects of learning have to be open-ended for a progam to be an Open-ended learning environment (OLE), there will be no examples of OLEs.

A more realistic view may be in the middle continuum. In this case, specific problems are assigned to the learners and tools and resources are provided to learners who can select own methods to solve the problems. Additonally, teachers are facilitators who guide the learning process and provide resources to learners. Learners learn from peers, from errors, reflecting-in-action and -on-action. All in all learners own the learning rather than relying solely on teachers for learning to take place.

McLellan (2004)

2009-03-17T10:04:00.002-04:00

This book chapter provides a very good review of many issues related to virtual reality (VR). It starts from historical background and types of VR. Frankly, instead of types of VR, I would like to see the key features of VR. Types of VR can change when technology changes, but the features will be relatively stable. Actually, towards the end of the book chapter, the author mentioned about the realm of experience with two dimensions: participation (active vs. passive), and absorption vs. immersion. Those can be some features of VR. Some other features that I can find are visual effect (3D vs. 2D, dynamic vs. static), interaction with the real world, location, task, feedback from the environment ...

I really like the issues that the author quoted from Fennington and Loge (1992). The four issues are:
(1) How is learning in virtual reality different from that of a traditional educational environment?
(2) What do we know about multisensory learning that will be of value in determining the effectiveness of this technology?
(3) How are learning styles enhanced or changed by VR? and
(4) What kinds of research will be needed to assist instructional designers in developing effective VR learning environments?

These four issues give researchers some research direction. Actually, when I start think about VR, the first question came to my mind was the different between VR and other educational environment. In other words, what additional values VR can give. Frankly, from the papers, most of the benefits are similar to the benefits of simulation.

The author defined VR as " a class of computer-controlled multisensory communication technologies that allow more intuitive interactions with data and involve human senses in new ways." (p.461) I see that VR is special because of it's multisensory communication capability and it involves human senses in new ways. The multisensory communication capability can help people to practice skills in a almost real environment. But, how about new senses? I think some Second Life research also pointed out that the new identity can give students a "new start" that they don't have carry their old labels such as failure, or below average. In addition, I believe the mulitsensory capability should work in some context, but not necessarily in other context. The multisensory capability can sometimes be distraction for the learners. In other words, the sense provided should be relevant to the learning objective.

In the theoretical perspectives, I am interested in the computers-as-threater perspective and experience design perspective. I think both of them can be relevant to game/VR research because experience and engagement seems like two big "selling points" in game/VR. For example, the author quoted from Shadroff (2002) that engagement needs to be significantly different from the surrounding environment and cognitive important or relevant. So, those can be some dimension that we may measure the "engagement" in game/VR. Of course, one assumption is that engagement + good educational design will lead to educational outcomes.

Second Life Preparation

2009-03-13T16:37:00.002-04:00

Hi All!
Here are several tasks for you to start play with the Second Life virtual environment. They are really easy and fun.
1. hardware preparation: since this is an online 3D software, plz use a faster computer, or the delay when you are playing will make you very frustrated.
2. Get and account. No matter if you have an account or not, you can click "Log in" to proceed. I believe you know very well how to register in an website. Just one thing to remember, you can only choose your "family name" from a list, rather than come up with one by your self, so don't forget it, or you won't be able to log in.
3. download the client software.
4. to know how to move around (arrow keys), and especially, how to fly! (keep pressing "W" key will let you fly, alt key plus your left key on the mouse will help you change your view.)
5. if you wish, change your facial appearance and clothes. (right click your avatar and left click "appearance")
6. "teleport" to a specific place, for example, to location (128,128,29), and tell me what it is:) It's in the "map" button.
7. find out an island that related to your professional interest. e.g. Mark can tell us a biology island. (see task 8 if you don't know how to search)
8. talk with people in that environment. If you cannot find any, go to "help people island" (click "map" button at the bottom of the screen and type "help people island" in "search" textbox.)
9. have a look in you inventory. make a blow kiss. (It's in the "gestures" folder. I believe you can figure out how to do it:)
10. add me (Toxy Magic) as your friend (by clicking "communicate button at lower left corner")
If you can do these ten things, I believe we will have a wonderful class meeting in SL after spring break. If you cannot, please check the following video to find it out. or you can do google search, it's more direct.

http://trainingvideos.hscs.wmin.ac.uk/second1/index.html

Visit this address for more information

https://support.secondlife.com/ics/support/default.asp?deptID=4417&task=knowledge&folderID=208

Rieber's microworlds (2004) by Mark

2009-03-09T23:03:00.005-04:00

I think Deniz wants us to think of microworlds and simulations as synonymous, but Reiber seems to try to make some distinctions. For a definition of microworlds, the author uses Clement (1998): "A microworld is a small playground of the mind." That is to say, it is an environment in which students (even very young ones) can make their own programs (e.g. models and simulations). In other words, it is our oft-talked-about "learning by modeling/simulating" (instead of learning by using models/simulations).

After then listing 4 "structural" inclusions of microworlds (1. computational objects that model the mathematical or physical properties of the microworld’s domain; 2. Links to multiple representations of the underlying properties of the model; 3. The ability to combine objects or operations in complex ways; and 4. A set of activities or challenges that are inherent or preprogrammed in the microworld), he states that the real test if something is a microworld is functional. "For an interactive learning environment
to be considered a microworld, a person must “get it” almost immediately—understand a simple aspect of the domain very quickly with the microworld—and then want to explore the domain further with the microworld (Rieber, 1996)."

This means that a something could be a microworld to one student, but not another. Also, it means that simulations/models of various types could be microworlds.

These definitions are best understood with the authors tactic of next presenting several "microworlds" (both in their structure and how they are functionally used as microworlds and not "just" simulations/games/models). To drive this home, on p198 Rieber states that, "Just providing a microworld to students, without the pedagogical underpinnings, should not be expected to lead to learning. The role of the teacher and the resulting classroom practice is crucial here. Microworlds rely on a culture of learning in which students are expected to inquire, test, and justify their understanding. 'Students needs to be actively engaged in the construction and assessment of their understandings by working thoughtfully in challenging and reflective problem contexts' (p29). THIS seems it is true of ANY tool or technology - the instructor must cultivate an environment of learning and encourage students to explore within a structure.

In reading this paper with an eye to simulations, I found this definition interesting: ""...three major design components to an educational simulation [are]: the underlying model, the simulation’s scenario, and the simulation’s instructional overlay (Reigeluth & Schwartz, 1989)." This actually does help clarify the model vs. simulation question I had last week. A simulation is a representation of a model (the scenario and presentation of it).

Rieber's summary (p600) gives a realistic picture of incorporating microworlds into schools: "The educational system needs to change in fairly dramatic ways for the potential of these systems to be realized. Probably the most fundamental change is allowing students adequate time, coupled with providing a master teacher who not only knows the software well, but also is a master of constructivist teaching...." Wish us luck!!

Geometer's Sketchpad

2009-03-05T20:03:00.004-05:00

SodaConstructor

2009-03-05T20:03:00.003-05:00

StageCast

2009-03-05T20:03:00.001-05:00

AgentSheets

2009-03-05T20:02:00.003-05:00

Star Logo TNG

2009-03-05T20:02:00.001-05:00

SimQuest

2009-03-05T20:00:00.001-05:00

PhET Interactive Simulations

2009-03-05T19:59:00.000-05:00

Simulation in news

2009-03-04T15:16:00.003-05:00

Hi,

When I search for simulation in news, I found quite a lot of simulations are "real life simulation" rather than computer simulation. For example, medical schools use simulation center to simulate the hospital environment: http://gauntlet.ucalgary.ca/story/13278.

One "computer simulation" story, found at http://www.tonawanda-news.com/local/local_story_042225908.html, is about driving safety. I think it is not something new, but the news talk about couple things those are consistent with what we read.
1. This tool provides a safe environment for the learners to practice the "cognitive" skills (of course, there are motor skills involved in driver education) that may not be done without using the technology. For example, it is almost impossible to experienced driving when vision is blur or it is hard to find an animal running in front of student's car when he/she is driving. It is possible to practice it in simulation. Think about the landing on Hudson River "miracle", landing on water is something pilot usually cannot practice, but it is possible with simulation (of course, I assume the real situation can be simulated effectively).
2. Students talk about fidelity in the story. But, what kind of fidelity will improve the "transfer of learning"? For example, is the fidelity of the environment is more important or the fidelity of the feeling of driving, such as wind blowing, is more important?

A Glimpse of my Research Interests

2009-03-04T01:47:00.003-05:00

Dr. Eseryel, thank you for prescribing this paper. I just like it and love it. Surely, I need to dig more in Alessi's work. Kinda like his non-biased approach and provding implications for instructional design.

After reading Alessi (1999), I kinda able to crave out the edges of my research interests...something relating to complex problem solving, modeling, model-centered instruction, non-modeling in the form of instructional augmentation or scaffolds, simluation embedded within a computer supported learning environment.

The journey is long...more work ahead.

Relationship Between Simulation methods and Learning goals

2009-03-04T00:49:00.003-05:00

According to Alessi (1999), building simulation is a more constrained methodology. This implies that instructional methods drives the learning goal of declarative knowledge (e.g. what is) acquisition. In other words, building simulation is commonly applied to declarative knowledge; resulting in deeper learning.

In the event when the learning goal is the procedural knowledge (e.g. how to) acquisition (more contrained learning goal), it is best to prescribe the method of using simulation instead of building it. In other words, procedural knowledge is almost always addressed by using simulation.

When there is no constrained of the learning goal, using and building simulation can be used for declarative knowledge acquisition.

Also, when there is no constrained on the methodology, using simulation can used for both procedural and declarative knowledge acquisition.

Observation from Gibbons (2000) + Alessi (1999)

2009-03-04T00:20:00.004-05:00

After reading Gibbons (2000) and Alessi (1999) papers, I have the following observation:

Alessi (1999)'s defintion of simulation is a computer program that has an underlying dynamic model in which learner can interact with the model via Graphic User Interface (GUI) with supports of learning.

Gibbons (2000) provides the bone or the underlying instructional design theory of the model-centered learning. He further advocated the use of instructional augmentation which is essentially support for learning as noted by Alessi.

Alessi (1999) adds flesh to the bone and further elaborates on the by-product of modeling - simulation.

Rieber 2004

2009-03-03T23:10:00.003-05:00

I really like the Rieber (2004) chapter about Microworlds. The author provides a clear description of microworlds starting from its historical origin, the Logo's root. although it is not the key purpose of the article, it also address the needs of design-based research, which we will discussed in the future.

I like the section about the characteristics of microworld, which include the structural affordance and the functional characteristis. actually, the functional affordances such as computational objects, multiple representations, combinations of objects, and challanges to solve problems, sounds quite a lot like the characteristics of simulation. However, the functional attributes makes microworld distinct from simulation. If microworld is characterized by its structural affordances, and its functional characteristics, and the structural affordances of microworld are the same as those of the simulations, then, we may say microworld is a subset of simulation.

The author also spend some time to described about the pedagogical approach called constructionism. As the author suggestion, it is a pedagogical apporach. the first thing comes up in my mind is project-based learning where students are constructing something through project. Since it is a pedagogical approach, it is different from constructivism which is an epistemology.

The author also mentioned about the "non-significant findings" in GenScope research. Seems like the non-significant results were rooted from the measurement issues. In other words, the measurement instrument of the learning outcomes from Microworld should not be the traditional paper-and-pencil tests. I agree that the traditional paper-and-pencil tests should not be appropriate for the learning outcomes of microworld. Using learning a language as an example, if someone immerse himself/herself in a new country, and able to speak the langauge reasonably well. Does it mean he/she can perform well in grammar tests? My point is that we should think about appropriate measurement for these new pedagogical approaches. However, can we create an instructment that is equally appropriate for new pedagogical approaches and traditional approaches so that our comparision is bias free? I don't know yet. However, I believe the argument for the 21st century skills is the measurement is not appropriate for 21st century.

Shaffer Chapter Six

2009-03-03T20:35:00.002-05:00

In Chapter Six, Shaffer demonstrated the definition of epidemic game by comparing two games: SimCity and Urban Science. The virtual environment that SimCity provides is not authentic, which does not resemble the living environment of the players; and the game doesn’t elicit the educated decisions from the players. As the author said, “Players act as virtual dictators” (Shaffer, 2006). It doesn’t provide the players with sufficient context to gather information or communicate with citizens or officials, nor it provides platform to justify players’ decisions. In contrast to SimCity, Urban Science does provide players with opportunities to think like professionals about the urban planning problems, which are ill-structured complex problems. The players can play in their own cities, which are familiar with them, and make amendment on them by gathering information from videotaped interviews of virtual representatives. Through iPlan, they can predict the effect of their measures and balance their actions. Such activities are not only fun but also thinking-provoking. The author argues that “epistemic games create virtual worlds based on existing professional training using key features as explicit markers rather than designing from scratch based on a set of principles extracted and abstracted from existing practica.” (Shaffer, 2006, p.179) He also emphasizes the importance of coherency: learning takes place only as part of a coherent system (Brown and Campione, 1996).
The author borrowed the concept "third place" to describe the position of epistemic games, which is between formal schooling and more traditional commercial games. This is the place where students and go after school and during vacations. it also create incentives for students to take advanced courses in technical subjects in school and facilitate the kind of thinking and learning that kids need in a changing world. Unlike in conventional schools, the facts, information and theories are learned and remembered because they were needed to play the game. Throughout the book, the author emphasizes that young people learn through epistemic games based on the way professionals train for innovative thinking. And it's important for adults to play computer and video games with their children in order to help them learn.

MCI needs Controls in addition to instructional augmentation

2009-03-03T00:58:00.002-05:00

As the essence of MCI is dynamic in nature with added complexity of solving ill-sturctured problems, I did concur with Gibbons on the need to build instructional product regulation factors into MCI.

Accordingly, he proposed instructional augmentation (e.g. learning companion) together with control points such as

1) model versioning controls to monitor the dynamic change of models
2) problem scoping controls to bound the problem space
3) problem step size controls to control the complexity of problem
4) Fading of instructional scaffolds to support learner problem skill acquisition.

and further suggested for design layering - decomposing solution of the design problem into sub-problems offers implications for instructional designers to develop content design languages, classify design problem into its structural types, reuse modular design elements. These are indeed new grounds for me!

Mark on Shaffer's (2006) chptr 6

2009-03-02T23:24:00.002-05:00

Shaffer continues to argue for educational games (i.e. those setup with the proper epistemic frame) as one major way to prepare students to innovate and think in new ways. In this final chapter of his book, he differentiates between popular games (like SimCity) and epistemic games (like Urban Planning). The latter is modeled on the real world--it is in context and includes the feedback that a read city planner would face (instead of the fantasy of SimCity). As in earlier chapters, he certainly seems to make a convincing case by pointing to "interview results" of students (pre- versus post-answers or transfer of knowledge to new scenarios/cases).

In discussing how to form/build epistemic games, the author makes an interesting dichotomy between "reflection-on-action" and "reflection-in-action" of professionals in practica in their fields. Though not much discussion is given to these (p177-178), the author states that "reflection-in-action" occurs over time as "reflection-on-action" is practiced and internalized. This follows the same idea as learning with models and learning by modeling (the latter internalizes it). And, even farther back, to the mental model ideas of Piaget!

Shaffer states to build epistemic games, we must ask:

What is worth being able to do in the world?
Who knows how to do this kind of thing, and how do they learn how to do it?
How do we make these learning practices available to others?

The most interesting part of this read (and the author knew it, so he put it at the end and ramped up to it!), was his suggesting that epistemic games probably WON'T be played mostly in the classroom. He recognizes the constraints of K-12 education (time, standardized test prep, cost, etc.), so suggest that this type of learning should take place in "third spaces" (other common areas besides school/work and home). He gives hope that farther in the future, school could include this sort of gaming curriculum; but, he seems to think this cultural shift will take quite a while. I would think that progressive schools would run to embrace this. Also, why couldn't higher education take the lead on doing this with our students, since we may not have the same constraints as common schools??

Mark's simulation (Alessi & Trollip 2001) thoughts

2009-03-02T21:29:00.002-05:00

I found it...annoying that the authors started this chapter by defining simulations as a "model." Perhaps because we have been reading about models, and I was looking for what was DIFFERENT about this new tool. They go on (p213) to say that "virtual reality" is a type of simulation. Since I had categorized virtual reality as another "discrete" unit in this course, I found this disturbing. Perhaps me thinking of our 4 modules as mutually exclusive is a mistake.

Luckily, the authors exclude "games" from their definition of simulations, and they go on to give concrete examples of several simulations. They present these in the context of their simulation type (which they point out are not distinct categories): they are about something or how to do something simulations. The former includes physical and iterative, while the latter includes procedural and situational.

The physical simulations allow the user to see an object/phenomenon on screen; their example is SimCity...considered a "GAME" in our Shaffer text! Iterative simulations allow users to select an input value then "run" the simulation (this reminds me of our GAME, the Beer Game). Some of the authors' comments about iterative simulations interested me though: the fact that they are sometimes called "scientific discovery learning" and that they are often used to teach concepts like ecology/population dynamics (not easily/directly visible). If this is true, I want to learn more about them.

Procedural simulations appear much like "physical," but the difference is that the focus is on the procedure, not the objects themselves. Again, there is biology application here, as these are used for labs/pre-labs (e.g. virtual dissections). The fourth simulation type, "situational" is classified as a type of procedural simulation; however, instead of learning a set of sequential steps, users explore and can take several paths to a common goal. This often involves role playing.

Although I found these attempts at differentiation in simulation types frustrating, I was pleased to see the authors' list of advantages of simulations compared to reality (p226). They enhance safety, provide "super reality," modify time frames, make events more common for observation, save money, and can present a complex system in more simple parts. They also give evidence that simulations are better than books, lectures, and tutorials (p229) because: they are more motivating, increase transfer of learning, are more efficient, and are more flexible. (I might argue that our "academic assistance" that my department offers can be all of these as well.)

The authors move into an "instructional designer" section of the book. They give a model of learning, then ask us to consider fidelity, delivery mode, instructional strategy, underlying model, building a primary objective into the simulation, giving the learner some control of the simulation, giving clear directions, and giving immediate or delayed learner feedback.

I think I better go back to trying to comprehend modeling...

Alessi (2000), Alessi & Trollip (2000) & Shaffer (2006)

2009-03-02T13:06:00.003-05:00

When I read the Schaffer's chapter, the main question coming up in my mind is the transfer issue. In other words, can learners successfully transfer what they "learned" from the game (or simulation) and transfer their learning to the "real world context". Are the learners only learned declarative knowledge and/or procedural knowledge in simulation? Then, I found some answers in Alessi (2000) & Alessi & Trollip (2000).

First, Schaffer's focus was in game which matches pretty well with using simulation. And, Alessi (2000) suggested, building simulation is more appropriate for problem-solving goals. The goals of using simulation can be either skill performance or skills required interpersonal interactions. In other words, game (or using simulation) should not be treated as a silver bullet. Instead, it has specific advantage for specific instructional goals. Alessi (2000) also addresses other factors such as complexity of the problem, learners' prior knowledge, efficiency of learning, and knowledge type, which has an effect on the choice of simulation.

I really like the model that is depicted figure 7.17 in Alessi & Trollip (2000, p, 235). Again, it answers my question regarding to transfer of learning. The model suggested fidelity, perceived fidelity, motivation, and initial learning are some key factors affecting transfer of learning. Some dimensions of fidelity such as fidelity of presentatation, fidelity of model, fidelity of use actions, and fidelity of time scale, are also given in both Alessi & Trollip (2000) and Alessi (2000) . The authors also suggest using Malone's motivation theory and Keller's motivation theory to enhance motivation. Currently, our research project is trying to come up with a framework to evaluate games. If transfer of learning is the ultimate goal, we may use the model depicted by Alessi & Trollip (2000) as our rubric.

Schaffer (2006) also discussed a concept called "facilitating communities of learners" (I could not locate the exact reference, but I think it is probably in Brown & Campione, 1996, 1998). Schaffer pointed out one key point from Brown & Campione study is that learning ONLY take places as a part of a coherent system, but not getting something from group A, and something from group B on a menu. The idea sounds very convincing. However, what is a coherent system? How can we fit our game/simulatoin discussion into this coherent system?

I feel that Schaffer's (2006) book not only trying to tell us game can be part of the educational solutions, but we also need to think about education differently. We should try to prepare the students to face the challenge in the information age (or whatever age that coming up for them). The question is whether we know enough how to achieve this goal or not? Is not, what are the missing pieces?

What is the difference between Models of Environments and Models of Systems?

2009-03-01T00:58:00.004-05:00

I do understand Models of Systems and its implications but is unclear on Models of Environments. Let me it a try...Models of Environments are bounded by time and spaces, and do not have cause-effect relationships while Models of Systems do. Models of Systems reside within an environment.

E.g. Humans - a Model of Systems can learn within the classroom environment. And it is clear that human cannot be a model of environment. In this case, the classroom is the model of the environment and professor can be the model of expert behavior.

Could anyone provide more insight on the difference, pls?

Gibbons Model-Centered Instruction

2009-02-28T23:57:00.002-05:00

I like the central theme about Gibbons' (2000) model-centered instruction is that effective and efficient instruction takes place through experiencing models with various support of instructional augmentations to faciliate learning from that experience. Specifically, I can see MCI as an external to internal instructional approach in which learning from externalized models supplant the internalized knowledge models. there is a constant flow of meaning negotiate between external and internal models.

The 7 principles of model-centered instruction helps frame the practical aspects of desigining learning environments to support model-centered learning. Of all the principles, I am intrigued by Denaturing - a artifical way of modeling the real system to match target learner's existing knowledge and goals.

Model-centric thinking is literally systems thinking. This form of thinking sees problem at the marco level which then provides the foundation to seeing the inner workings of the problem at the micro level. As such, modeling faciliates the ability to see problem as a whole rather than sum of its parts. This is my epiphany!

Indeed, I see strong links between complex problem solving and modeling as a tool in the Instructional Designer's toolbox, and model-centered instruction as prescribing instruction to the learner in the model-centered learning environment.

Wii music in classroom

2009-02-24T23:28:00.002-05:00

I found one interesting news about Wii music in the classroom: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29127548/

The more I think about games, the more I feel it is how people perceive the activity. For example, classic classroom activities can view as a game which we have clear goal (answer all the questions in the test correctly), clear rules (you cannot cheat), and some kind of competition (before graduate school, there is more or less a curve concept in school that students need to do outperform the fellow students to get an A). Now, with Wii that people perceive as a game, students are receptive to learn with it.

However, some people still cannot accept that game can be a main instrument for learning instead of just a supplementary exercise.

reflection on MFL-DeJong

2009-02-24T16:42:00.001-05:00

in De Jong and Van Jooligen 2008, the authors mentioned mainly two types of models: (a) computer models and (b) external models.
To my understanding, computer models that they mentioned is the simulation that the learners may observe and manipulate. They are black boxes. The learners need to observe their input and output value in order to predict its behavior and its inner structure. The external model that the authors mentioned, to me, is the externalized mental representation of the computer model. The learners have had some ideas (the mental representation, or mental model) about its internal mechanics after interacting with the computer model, then they need to externalize it as an external model, and then to amend it in order to imitate the original model's behavior.
Other types of models that were mentioned are domain models, which are generally agreed upon by researchers working in these domains, and individual models, external or internal (mental models), owned by individuals. The purpose of scientific practice lies in adapting individual modes to align with domain models.

While models belong to the category of learning theories, inquiry learning belongs to learning approach.
Learning from models, learning by modeling and a combination of the two are the three approaches advocated by the authors. As the first two were discussed in the reflective journal of Milrad, Spector & Davidsen, I will not repeat here.

Mark on Esryel & Spector 2002

2009-02-23T21:33:00.003-05:00

Just a quick note on Eseryel and Spector 2002 (I realized I hadn't posted on this yet). The main thing I was thinking about was based on the (p8): "Causal influence diagrams (CID) were compared between novice and expert to assess level of understanding of novice." It seems the more "expert diagrams" you can get, the closer you can get to some "ethereal perfect diagram" with which to compare novice diagrams. In other words, for biology, I would need some database (online repository) where faculty contribute their understanding. Some online software could automatically compare novice diagrams to this ever-growing (hidden) database of expert CIDs.

The first step, then, is training biology faculty on causal diagrams! I'm not sure I could get any interested in this!! There are certainly some more interested in education, and I think I could get those....but some sort of incentive would still be nice (recognition? count as a peer-reviewed pub or review?)

Bryan plays beer game

2009-02-23T19:03:00.001-05:00

The Beer Game
I started playing the game by reading the short overview and background on the homepage. I would like to know what the game is about. However, I think student may prefer jump into the game without looking at the introduction. I tried to click the three icons, which are much like the three challenges in the Food Chain, but they are not links. Then I clicked wrap-up to begin my trail.

My first trail is to play the simulation. Before play it, I read carefully the instruction of the goal: to keep the inventory at 20 cases. Then I begin to play. For the first three days, in which no change took place, I just click run until I see the consumption raised up to 8 (in the fourth week). Then I begin to increase the order from wholesaler gradually by raising it one case more per week in order to avoid severe fluctuation. (Because I predict that the consumption may change from time to time, which means it is a ill-structured problem).
Below is my first trail.
WEEK CASES
1 4
2 4
3 4
4 4
5 5
6 6
7 7
8 8
9 8
10 8
11 9
12 10
13 10
14 10
15 10
16 10
17 10
18 8
19 8
20 8

I ended up spending $141.88 with 20 cases in the inventory by the 20th week but the system told me I failed. It might because I didn’t compensate the inventory with equal amount of cases immediately, so I tried the second time.

The second trail was a success one. When consumption goes up (8 cases), I immediately compensate the inventory with a larger amount (10) of beers. So the inventory recovered soon and reached the original balance. This time, I know that the consumption will be steady (8 cases) so I know the model is an ideal one. So I can know what it is like.

For the third time, I looked at the model (stack-flow chart) provided by the software. What caused the problem is the 2 weeks’ delay. Inventory was both added and drained by retailers and consumers. So understanding the dynamic is the key thing to solve the problem.

Science Ed Model (Extra reading)

2009-02-23T00:51:00.003-05:00

Both Gobert and Clement's papers (2000) are from the same issue, highlighting use of modeling in science education (and research). As such, both hit on some of the same issues, and both of these papers gave summary and reference to other papers in this "special issue." One important point is that, "At present, models and modeling are considered integral parts of scientific literacy" (p891).

Of interest are their references to Buckley's paper, which apparently has some discussion of assessments. "Buckley shows one method of doing this [describing target models and post-conceptions] in biology in her figure 8, including distinctions between structure, function, behavior and mechanism. Her diagram notation holds promise for allowing us to describe pre- and post-conceptions at an intermediate level of detail, and to compare them to a target model" (p1044). I need to get this and take a look.

Another thing that caught my eye was their reference to Gobert's discussion (in a different paper of this same issue) of the "drawing to learn" strategy (p1046): "...drawings can become a kind of glue that holds the instructional session(s) together, keeps them coherent, and focuses them on the developing conceptual model. This may be a larger sense in which drawings can be an integrative medium." This is of particular interest because I have been talking to a professor in the Botany/Microbiology department on campus about his using student drawings as an indication of their understanding of concepts/content in his Introductory Botany class. Integrating this with technology (both for DOING and ASSESSING the drawings) may be the direction I take my dissertation research.

Mark likes Beer!

2009-02-23T00:37:00.001-05:00

run 1: I wanted to just jump right in and start pressing buttons, but I resisted this urge. Instead I read the directions to see what it was I was supposed to do/learn. With a 2-week delay between order from wholesaler and delivery, I knew I’d need to order more cases the week that I saw an increase in orders (not wait until another downturn). So, I was able to gradually increase or decrease orders as demand changed. Demand didn’t appear to rapidly increase, so I was able to keep expenditures to just over $200 for the 20-week period (the game said optimum was $250, so I felt pretty good about myself!).

run 2: I did almost as well this time; found myself looking more closely at the exact number of cases ordered by customers, instead of just estimating by watching the bar graph. I was thinking of the model behind this…the causal relationships of: number in stock, number ordered, and 2-week delay.

run 3: I did the worst this time, though still optimum ($249); and I’d been drinking beer. ☺ Looking at the model was interesting, but I didn’t find myself naturally thinking about it as I did this third game. Because I didn’t get any “backordering” on any of the 3 runs, I didn’t have to consider/use that part of the feedback loop. I do find myself wanting to play again to see if I can get it to give me a larger jump in customer orders; then, I could see my reaction and get a backlog of orders. So, for my fourth run, I had the same jump in orders from 4 to 8 during week 4 (?); I got to an expenditure of just $187!

In all three, I don’t feel like I learned anything…rather just played a game. I’d be curious if I could take a test on any underlying principles. Also, it does make me want to try to build my own model of something in Stella. As a student, I think the next step would be to have them change the variables and play again (increase case cost, increase/decrease order lead time, vary randomly the number of orders each week). The next step should then be to have a similar situation, with a different commodity, and have them write out a model that could explain it (in a format similar to the Beer Game model, since they have seen that). Without this last step, I am learning with models, but not learning with modeling. Learning with modeling definitely engages the learners mind in more active thinking and should accomplish more conceptual change than just using this Beer Game (or even seeing the underlying model). Eventually, some “real terminology” should be used, so that I know what to call all these supply/demand principles with which I’ve been working.

Beer game reflection

2009-02-21T23:22:00.003-05:00

First, if you haven't played the beer game, I suggest you don't read my blog yet. Finish it first, and it is fun to play both the researchers and students.

Here is my log (actions + reflections)
Objective -
1. maintain a stable inventory at 20 cases
2. Keep total expenditures for 20 week period under 300.

How it works:
sell when I have stock
lead time = 2 weeks
4 x carrying cost = out of stock cost

Seems like I have only ONE input variable - how many cases to order.

my notes: I rather write down the objectives to help me keep focus; also I translate the game rules into my langauge. I had inventory management experience, so I am kind of an expert. But, i still try to not using my knowledge at the beginning (try not to invoke any prior inventory model that I know of; but I know my general mental model should be invoked anyway - let's see)

My first question: what is the demand function? (too bad, my previous knowledge kicks in, but it is also a normal question to ask. We got to know the demand before we stock). Then, I found that the informatino is located at the left (given by the problem).

What i have now =
20 cases
Cases order per week 4

I start with 8 cases, because the lead time is 2 weeks, and the demand is 4 per week. Then, I run (try not to think too much at this time because I don't want to invoke any inventory model that I know of at this time).

Week number and number of cases ordered are listed below:
1 - 8
2 - 2 => I found out the price for each case $3.2??
3 - 4
4 - 4
5 - 8 => customer demand 8 => I reacted with more order.
6 - 8
7 - 8 => I still order 8, since I think I am still OK with 15 on my shelves (and my order from warehouse is getting in).
8 - 8
9 - 12 => because the objective is keeping the inventory at 20. So, I order 12 to push up my inventory now (actually, I don't think we need 20 safty stock).
10 - 9 => still adding a little bit more to keep the inventory at 20 (and, seems like I cank keep the target expenditure in range)
11 - 8
12 - 4 - we are over the target.
13 - 8 - The demand is keeping at 8. So, I order 8 (assuming we already balance our inventory)
14 - 8
15 - 8
16 - 8
17 - 8
18 - 8
19 - 8
20 - 8

I keep my inventory at 20, and cost at 245.88.

Can I do it better. Yes, with a spreadsheet. where I have initial inventory, demand, and supply, where initial inventory(t) = initial inventory (t-1) - demand (t-1) + supply (t-2). => this is my model

I still order 8 in the first week. Instead of order something on the second week, I order nothing. But, for some reason, my supply is below target when the demand jump from 4 to 8.
I keep my inventory at 20, and cost at 223.88

Then, I look at the model which is very similar to the mathematical model that I created.

I did almost the same thing, but keep the inventory closer to 20 most of the time.

Actually, the math model is abstract and it is not easy for students to create such a model (maybe my math model is off a little bit, too). I think the stock and flow diagram should be a lot more intuitive for the students to learn the concept.

Again, I took inventory management classes over my academic career. I think this is a better way for the students to experience the different issues of inventory management. Actually, the two key issues are (which I know before I play the game) are demand uncertainty and lead time uncertainty. I haven't played the advance game, but I guess the game will introduce the lead time uncertainty (or minimize the cost) to the equation. No matter what, I believe it is a better way to provide the students the key concepts. Then, mathematical models can be introduced to "solve the problem" because we do have mathematical models to solve the problems accurately. The instructional question is when and how to introduce the math models. In other words, how to use the simulation AND the math models to achieve academic goal? In this case, learning the inventory management concepts.

Victor

Steps to construct a model and 3 Phases of Model-Facilitated Learning

2009-02-19T00:02:00.004-05:00

Step 1: Identify and define objects and its variables.
Step 2: State the relationship between objects.
Step 3: Test the model for expected outcome.

This model constructing process mirrors the process for writing a computer program!!!

I am loving it!!! All thanks to de Jong and van Joolingen for making it so clear. I concur with the authors on first learning from models, then learning by modeling. lastly reinforce with model-based inquiry learning. these 3 sequential phases of learning activities seem effective.

Learning from model with cognitive scaffolds help novices develop modeling skills. As novices become more skillful, they can then construct models. combining these learning experiences set the stage for model-based inquiry learning...they learn, do, and integrate.

Davidsen (1996) & Clement (2000)

2009-02-18T12:46:00.003-05:00

Davidsen (1996) describes a simulation-based and modeling approach to learning using system dynamics. I think the main issue that he tried to tackle is complex problem-solving. Modeling approach can provide a holistic view of complex problems. Simulation provides an experimental approach for the students to experience the complexity of the problems, and possible effect of proposed solution.

Even though Davidsen (1996) did not put a lot of emphasize on organizational learning, he implies that system dynamics may enhance organizational learning, too.

I think we did talk about the uncertainty issue in complexity, and Davidsen (1996) address this issue by suggesting Monte-Carlo simulation as a tool.

I think Clement (2000) summarized the themes and some studies in that special issue. He tried to develope a cognitive theory of conceptual change, which is very close to what Seel (2003) described, except Clement recognize that the the target model may not be as complicated as the expert model. I think Clement is trying to look at the problem from a "classroom" instructinal point of view, where Seel is looking at more general situation. When students spend long enough time to learn (I assume they learn), the target model will transit to expert model.

I would like to discuss an interesting issue here: students' concept of learning. Students do not believe in inquiry based learning (or learn by moving from one intemediate model to another). Actually, one of the students who participated in our research did not draw a concept map, but just wrote "it is a completely waste of time" on the paper. And, the teacher have a lot of pressure to help the students in standardized test. So, how easy to change our students' concept of learning? If it is not as easy, it there any middle ground to help our students to learn?

Actually, this converstation make me think about the game-based learning argument from Shaffer (2006) and Prensky (2007) that we may help students to learn in game so that they don't even need to think that they are learning. Maybe game-based learning is a solution.

Spector (2003) & Eseryel & Spector (2002)

2009-02-18T10:57:00.002-05:00

Nelson did talk about PBL in his posting. After I review the paper a little bit more, I think the key point from Spector is not just to point out that PBL (or PCI) does not have strong theoretical foundation. Also, he wants to suggest a research issue for PBL - the difficulty of assessing high-order thinking (or learning in complex domain).

It is interesting to see Spector to talk about "short term goal" and "long term goal" for PBL. I believe it matches the theme from Seel (2003) that the mental model of the learners revise over time. The goal of educators should be move the mental model of the learners closer to the "final state". In the context of PBL, it will be more expert like.

My question: is it a reasonable progression for medical students (or other students) to first manage what is on-hand? and then developing high-order thinking skills? Do we have enough evidence to suggest that PBL is good for those short term goals? I read there are mixed results from PBL, but a thorough analysis need to be done to see why mixed results were found.

I think Eseryel & Spector (2003) can serve as a respond to the Spector (2003) future research direction. Eseryel & Spector (2003) study ID experts who solve problem in a complex domain. They found recognizable patterns in their representation and solution. With this finding, we may find a way assess high-order thinking skill in complex domain by comparing novice CID with expert CID. Actually, I think researchers have done this kind of comparison for some time (even though they may not use CID). However, Eseryel and Spector (2003) provides empirical evidences that the CID of an expert may be the final state that is discussed in Seel (2003).

So, may I use this argument to use ONE expert CID as my "rubric" (providing that I convince my reader he/she is indeed an expert in the field) for a study?

One more point: longitudinal study is important since the mental model revise over time. I think the research question should be how to make the revision happen (and, happen in a faster rate).

On Milrad, Spector & Davidsen

2009-02-17T16:32:00.000-05:00

Focusing on the support that technology can provide in distributed learning environments and complex systems, the author provided us two approached that make use of model: learning with models and learning by modeling. To improve learners' learning, socio-constructivism, system dynamics and collaborative tele-learning are brought together.

The learning process, in which a novice is transferred to be an expert, shows "graduated complexity": MFL advocates a sequence of learning activities that begins with some kind of concrete operation, manipulating tangible objects in order to solve specific problems (Milrad, Spector & Davidsen, 2000). As these operations are mastered, learners can then progress to more abstract representations and solve increasingly complex problems.

This process is in accordance with the increasing difficulty from learning with models to learning by modeling.

Their research is supported by Situated learning theory: novice to expert in community; and Cognitive Flexibility Theory: multiple representation. Learner constructed and
Learner modifiable representation

Rouwette et al (2000) argue that a collaborative approach to model and policy design is effective for learning and understanding.

Causal loop diagram can provide a representation of the entire system, which can support elaboration, knowledge elicitation and assessment of understanding.

Using causal loop to present the problem, let student understand, change a little (variable) and predict, the use simulation to verify, may create disequilibrium, hence promote learning.

I find this process is much like that the Food Chain software provides. Based on same theory, we can design and develop similar effective learning environment or software to facilitate learners with complex problem solving.

Mark on Jonassen 2005

2009-02-17T00:07:00.002-05:00

These articles seemed to get more and more practical/applicational. I enjoyed this one (perhaps because it mentioned Eco-Beaker, which I have seen demonstrated and looked into using!).

Jonassen et al are using this paper to convince us that technology supported models constructed by students can affect conceptual change (=learning)(p16). As we've discussed last week, ASSESSMENT still seems to be a tough piece of this puzzle. This article says that rubrics can be used to compare models built over time to gauge conceptual change. However, the sample rubric (~p16) is quite vague (the sign of a poor rubric, in my mind). It would still require lots of trained, human input; and results may not be consistent between instructors.

One statement that resonated with me (p19) was, "We argue that the task that most naturally engages and supports the construction and reorganization of mental models is the use of a variety of tools for constructing physical, visual, logical, or computational models of phenomena. Building representational and interpretive models using technologies provides learners the opportunities to externalize, restructure, and test their conceptual models." They cite (Frederiksen & White, 1998; Mellar, et al., 1994; White, 1993) to say that "interacting with model-based environments does result in development and change of mental models." Hard to argue with that!

Another part I was excited about (because I'm constantly trying to find ways that I could make "high memorizing" courses like intro science [new terminology] or Human Anatomy include more active learning) was on p24. Here they say that "by modeling domain knowledge, students must understand conceptual relationships among the entities within the domain in order to construct the model." So, they're memorizing by building relationships (even as simply as on a concept map).

I feel like I didn't get enough info about the "ontology shifting" (p31); so should probably look into the paper they cite. I was happy to see them list the limitations to modeling in this paper (though they seemed to have an answer for each). An enjoyable paper!

Spector's View on Problem Centered Instruction

2009-02-16T23:41:00.002-05:00

I am really surprised that Spector claimed PCI lacks a proper theoretical foundation. Until now, my theoretical framework on ill-structured problem solving stemmed from Hannifin, Land, Oliver (1999) Open-ended Learning Environment (OELE) and Jonassen's Constructivists Learning Environment (CLE). Both learning environments are grounded in established learning theory - constructivisim and designed to support higher order cognitive skills. Further, these environments provide a system or holistic approach with support of cognitive tools for scaffolding learner problem solving.

On the assessment side, I am intrigued that learner problem solving can be assessed through causal diagrams. This brings new insights on self-assessement in which learners build causal diagrams on problem solutions and then compared that with the expert's diagrams.

Mark's thoughts on Milrad et al. 2002

2009-02-16T14:58:00.002-05:00

Milrad et al. clearly lay out their goal in this paper: to show that "...technology can be effectively used in distributed learning environments to support learning in and about complex systems....To achieve this goal, learning theory (socio-
constructivism), methodology (system dynamics) and technology (collaborative tele-learning) should be suitably integrated (Spector & Anderson, 2000). We call this integration Model Facilitated Learning (MFL) (Spector & Davidsen, 2000)." (from pages 2-3). Apparently this has all been published elsewhere (citations above), but this paper just gives a little bit more concrete explanation of MFL with specific example(s).

Milrad et al. talk quite a bit about all the other theories/methods of the past, and how they've integrated them into MFL: situation/problem-based learning, cognitive flexibility theory (CFT), instructional design methods per "elaboration theory" and "cognitive apprenticeships. HUH??!!! Luckily, page 4 and beyond gives some background on these. "Situation based" says that learning "occurs in the context of activities that typically involve a problem, others, and a culture." SO, MFL applies technology to CFT, allowing collaboration in context-dependent situations, where the learning objectives are first concretely shown, then increasing complexity is added and inquiries collected/solved to allow the learner to construct a model of the concept. In other words they do, "coupling of system dynamics with collaborative and distributed technologies."

MFL is further boasted about (p6) because it suggests a sequence of learner challenges from 1) challenging learners to standardize behavior of a complex system to 6) challenging them to diversity and generalize to new problem situations. And, just as Deniz mentioned last week, MFL "advocates learning WITH models...to introduce learners to a new domain...and to promote learning simpler procedures" (using causal loop diagrams, for instance). Then, more advanced learners transition from learning with models to LEARNING BY MODELING (p9-10). To do this (still with MFL), the learners 1) must realize there is a system behavior occuring (underlying connections happening); 2) use graduated complexity (let learners fill in missing info on a partial model, have them construct a simple model, then complex model (or link simple models), then have them reach a goal/conclusion through from-scratch modeling.

It is nice that on p.11 a concrete EXAMPLE of MFL, using problem orientation, inquiry experimentation, and policy development in regard to acid rain/water quality is shown. I wish there was a bit more detail though (especially since it is in my area of "ecology!"). They argue that using MFL (structured, building, collaborative model-based learning), they meet all the "requirements" needed to allow learner growth. BUT, it doesn't appear this was ever tested in this paper (lecture on same stuff, or non-collaborative simulations VS. MFL to compare learner outcomes). Perhaps this next 2008 paper will show some!

Mark's thoughts on Seel 2002

2009-02-16T11:28:00.002-05:00

WITH ANY OF THESE PAPERS THAT REFER BACK TO PIAGET AND OTHER "CLASSICAL PSYCHOLOGY" RESEARCHERS: Our reading from last week's GAME-THEORY FOLKS (Shaffer and Prenskey) told us that STUDENTS/YOUNG LEARNERS NO LONGER THINK LIKE THIS, BECAUSE THE DIGITAL AGE HAS CHANGED THE RULES (THE WAY THEY THINK)! SO, how much of this should we believe? I suppose whatever stuff they have solid research results from, huh?! Much of it seems theoretical though, so I'm not sure we can believe much of it.

Seel does make some interesting points though, and I found myself reading slower often; partly because I'm still retraining myself to read faster, partly because the concepts were complex, and partly because I found it so interesting.

Around pages 60-64 of this paper, Seel worked to convince us of the differences in models (discussed in his and other papers). That is, Piaget's "schema" is an interpretation network that is used to classify/organize incoming data, but couldn't actually be represented; the "constructed model" is an actual representation that can be used to prescribe or predict input from the world (an externalization of the internal world, or an internalization of an external system). p66 goes on to state there is a third system....external systems that are experienced in nature or artifacts of systems created by other humans!! The differences seem so subtle as to not matter (especially b/w second and third), and even by the end of this paper I wasn't quite sure I understood.

page 70 described a dichotomy I could understand more easily: the difference between "instructionally guided model-centered learning" and "self-organized discovery learning for the construction of effective mental models." I also appreciated and agreed with the note that "self-guided discovery learning is very ambitious insofar as the learners must have previously achieved adequate problem-solving and metacognitive skills to guide their learning process. Therefore, for novice students it can be argued that self-organized discovery learning is closely associated with learning by trial-and-error but not by insight." So perhaps the shift should happen to insight learning through self-guided discovery learning AS THE SEMESTER progresses with upper secondary and undergraduate education. I could see this happening with more "lecture/content" and term introduction towards the first of the semester, then shifting to putting more weight on the students; this seems to naturally happen in classes as larger individual or group projects are assigned/due at the end of the semesters.

I also appreciated Seel's quotation of Stewart et al. (1992, p.318) concerning science education that "these instructional approaches should do more than instruct students with respect to the conclusions reached by scientists; it should also encourage students to develop insights about science as an intellectual activity."

However, I feel like I need more application/examples of this. Hopefully my further reading can provide some (if we don't just assume that the Game-theory folks are right, and all of this is based on "old research" that doesn't apply!).

Jonassen et al (2003)

2009-02-15T23:09:00.002-05:00

This paper view modeling from another angle - conceptual change. Actually, I am not sure the differences between change of mental model and conceptual change. Just like the model described in Seel (2003), this paper also advocate change of mental model.

Jonassen and colleagues first described some theoretical foundation of conceptual change. They suggested synthetic view and cognitive view of conceptual change is more relevant in their hypothesis than the social/cultural view. Actually, the hypothesis talk about facilitating multiple representation of knowledge. de Jong & van Joolingen (2008) suggested Cognitive Flexibility Theory (CFT) may provide the theoretical foundation for multiple representation. Collaboration, argumentation, negotiation among group members may provide multiple representation.

The authors suggest that technology provide affordances to enable us externalize our model. By externalize our models, we may make revision of conceptual understanding, which is the conceptual change.

The authors also suggest that we can model domain knowledge, problems, system, experiences, and thinking using different tools. However, it is not clear that whether there is a one-to-one match between the phenomenon and the tool. Or what are the factors may affect the choice of tool?

It is interesting that the authors talked about different tools that is not originally design as modeling tool (or cognitive tool). For example, database and spreadsheet are tools that have "business" purposes. However, they still can be used as modeling tools.

Milrad, Spector and Daviden (2002) and de Jong and van Joolingen (2008)

2009-02-15T20:30:00.002-05:00

Both of these two chapters named as modeling facilitated learning. There are many similarities between the two types of learning approaches, but there are also some differences.

First, both of them talking about two types of model based learning. In Milrad et al (2002), they described learning with model, and learning by model. In de Jong and van Joolingen (2008), they called the two types of model based learning as learning from models and learning by creating models.

Both articles talked about using computer simulation in model based learning.

In de Jong and van Joolingen (2008), they provided a definition of models at the beginning of the article. It is defined as a set of representations, rules, and reasoning structure that allow one to generate predictions and explanations (de Jong and van Joolingen, 2008, p.458). I believe it gave us a good starting point to understand about how they use models. Indeed, computer simulation seems fitting in this definition nicely.

de Jong and van Joolingen (2008) gave a little bit more description about their CoLab design (and it is nice to read their 2005 paper (van Joolingen et al, 2005)). They provided a very clear description of how CoLab support the scientific discovery learning process. Basically, CoLab supported the whole scientific discovery process, including data gathering, hypothesis testing, planning, and so on.

de Jong and van Joolingen (2008) quoted previous studies about the effectiveness of the model based learning. It should help students in conceptual understanding on science subjects, scientific reasoning, science knowledge, problem solving skills, modeling skills, and ability to perform far transfer. Therefore, it seems model based learning is promising. But why model based learning work? Milrad et al (2002) tried to provide a theoretical framework for such a case. They talked about situated learning and cognitive flexibility. I believe simulation model helps to bring learners closer to the context of activities. However, can other type of MBL also achieve the same effect? How close we need to bring the learners to the real activities in order for MBL works?

CFT (cognitive flexibility theory) emphasize multiple representation. However, it is not really clear that MBL has to include collaboration. Maybe this is why the authors created a new terminology, model facilitated learning. Unfortunately, both of those two papers did not really clear to how collaboration should be included in the model. In my understanding, they suggested that collaboration should be included, and provided some support for the collaboration. Should the teacher also involve in the collaboration as Clement (2008) suggested?

Seel (2003)

2009-02-15T17:21:00.002-05:00

Seel's (2003) provides a very good overview of model-based learning and teaching. I think his focus in about "improving" of mental model. In figure 4 (p.70), Seel's description of the learning process have a final state. It is quite similar to what Clement (2008) described in his chapter. So, instructors are helping the learners to progress in mental model revision towards the final state.

I believe that final state maybe the goal of an instruction.

In the research scenario 1, Seels talked about presenting models to learners will affect their construction of mental model. I still haven't read the seminal work of Mayer(1989). I believe presenting model should affect learner's mental model construction, but how/in which direction?

This week, I read an article in Dr. Greene's class, Hall, Bailey & Tillman 1997 about student-generated illustration. Their claim is asking students to generate pictures is better than giving them the pictures when measuring their problem-solving ability. So, it sounds like that they asked the students to re-creating a model from text. Seel mainly talked about comparing students who build models with students who were given models. Actually, there can be a third case that the students generate models after they see some kind of model. Maybe that is cognitive apprenticeship when students see how the mentor created a model.

Victor

Casti (2008) & Clement (2008)

2009-02-15T16:30:00.003-05:00

First Casti (2008) is a nice and short article that gave a brief review of what model is. It is important for us to understand what model is before we start. The discussion of predictive, explanatory, and prescriptive models is also interesting. Can we match those three kinds of model with empirical, conceptual, and design-based research?

The author suggested that is a "midway" between lecture style and discover learning. Actually, today when I teach a bible study class, I tried the method. I feel that people are more engaging, but it put a lot of cognitive load to the teacher because the teacher need to
1. understand the goal of the instruction very clearly; otherwise, discussion can be offtrack easily.
2. able to monitor the misconceptions.
3. able to come up with effective scaffold
4. as Clement (2008) suggested, the teacher need to hold off topics so that students can focus on one difficult topic at a time. Of course, it means that the teacher need to know what is difficult.

Of course, we may give teachers tool to guide them to decrease their cognitive load. For example, we can have some ways to guide the teachers to do preparation so that they have a list of misconceptions and corresponding scaffolding questions.

Actually, I am reading some ITS papers lately. It makes me thinking about whether those kindS of scaffolding can be performed by computer (or computer and teacher "work" together)?

Victor

last week reading

2009-02-13T21:13:00.002-05:00

First a general question:
1) I am still working on last week's readings; while I continue to "train myself" to read 100 pages in 1 hour (I've been reading for about 9 hours total and have 2 articles left from last week), should I just leave the old readings behind or keep trying to catch up and fall farther behind?

Sterman 2002 thoughts: Complex systems are harder to understand (even with multiple mistakes on the same system in decision-making processes), and therefore harder to learn from. Well...yeah! This seemed to be the point of more than the first half of the paper. The strength of this paper definitely seems to be in Figure 8 (and surrounding text), where the "virtual world" is used as a "stepping stone" in understanding real world complex systems. Still though, the learner must experience real-world complexity to try out any new decision-making (mental models). I'd like to see/hear more examples about this (to see how it apply it to teaching of complex biological concepts).

Some thoughts from the 1st week readings

2009-02-10T14:08:00.002-05:00

The readings of this week have a few major themes. First, our education system is not working. One interesting point that mentioned by Shaffer (2006) is that our educational system was geared to the industrial age, where we need people to perform some routine tasks accurately. So, the demand to do the “right” thing was important at that age. I don’t know whether our education was a result from the needs of the industry, but it is clear that the same type of educational outcomes that we are measuring today doesn’t work for the information age. We are now living in the information age (Akilli, 2007; Galarneau & Zibit, 2007; Prensky, 2007; Shaffer, 2006). The industry now looks for the 21st century skills such as knowledge sharing, creation, collaboration (Galarneau & Zabit, 2007).

The second theme of this week is that game and simulation can be a solution (Akilli, 2007; Galarneau & Zibit, 2007; Prensky, 2007; Shaffer, 2006). Even though some of the authors do not say game is the solution, the authors give a high hope for games to be a solution if it is effectively designed and implemented. Prensky (2007) even foresee that the education/training industry will move to be game-based soon because of the demand of the learners. In other words, because games are so good that people will want it. I may not agree with Prensky (2007) hope because innovation diffusion depends on a lot of factors. Theory of diffusion of innovations (Rogers, 2003) suggest that other factors such as compatiability with other technologies (technology in a loose sense that it does not have to be computing device), and complementarity with other technologies may also affect the diffusion of technology. Obviously, the improvement of technology seems like helping the game movement.

The third theme of this week is complexity. It is safe to suggest that the world is complex. Dorner (1987) provided a very good introduction of complexity. I see two main components in Dorner’s argument. (1) the cognitive components which suggest that human’s mind has limitation to deal with the complexity (2) the affective components, where fear of failure is a key driver to prevent people to deal with complex phenomena effectively. In Dr. Ge’s class, we examine computer as cognitive tools to support cognitive processes. However, I also believe that computer may also support the affective side of the equation. It will be interesting to examine any interaction effect between those two dimensions.

The two books by Shaffer (2006) and Prensky (2007) are more practitioner oriented. They have a lot of good observations, but I haven’t found good support from both books yet. Maybe I can find those in the later chapters. Anyway, they did raise many good issues that game-based design researchers should pay attention to. For example, Prensky (2007) and Akilli (2007) both talked about the addictiveness of game. Yes, game is additive. I was addicted to game, too. But, why it is addictive?

Another good point that Prensky (2007) observed is that gamers have expectations on the games. They are intentional which is an important concept for learning under constructivism. Gamers expect game is better than their previous game. They expect the graphic is better. They expect to network with other people. They expect to play hard. Actually, many of the readings claim that game provide the motivation for the learners to engage, and learning will happen if the game is designed effectively.

I applaud Akilli’s effort to start understand what is game and how can it be implemented in educational context (Akilli, 2007). It is important to understand what is a game, and what we want to get out of the a game before we try to understand how we utilize game as a tool to assist learning. The authors did summarize some definitions of games from other people, and he adds that game should be fun and creative. However, I could not find a working definition for game yet. Actually, it is relatively hard to measure creativity. Fun is a subjective measure, which can be influenced by the society. For example, some boys may find basketball is a fun game, but some other boys may find basketball boring, and they like to play card game instead. In other words, people define fun differently. Actually, this can be an issue for game-based learning if fun is a pre-requisite of a game.

Akilli (2007) uses a terminology called “game-like learning environment”. I find trouble with this terminology when we do not have a working definition of a game. Actually, from the readings we have this week, I feel that (it may not be true) people look at game as a black box. Anything that has some sort of game characteristics can fit into the game-based learning (or we just called them game-like learning environment since we know it is not really a game). Instead, I suggest that we need to examine the components of the game, and match those components with the expectation that we find beneficial to educational environment. Motivation and engagement are two of those big sellers for game-based learning. I think they are some legitimate constructs that we can examine as moderating variables or dependent variables. Also, implementation issues can be factors which affect the success of the game/simulation.

Finally, I have a personal belief that the world is not always fun. So, we should teach our kids that we try to make things fun, but we will also work hard on the boring stuffs. For example, a high school teacher may love to teach, but he/she may not like to deal with parents. A college professor may love to do research, but he/she may not like to deal with administrative issues and get funding. Life is full of examples like that. We, as responsible adults, we need to deal with boring stuffs effectively so that we have energy to work on the fun stuffs. Therefore, I think game-based learning is a good idea, but too much of it may discourage students to work on something that is not really fun, but maybe necessary.

vibes about complex systems

2009-02-07T19:22:00.003-05:00

i have vibes about researching more about complex systems...how to make complex systems as simple as possible...this area of research seems to have potential for growth.

Also noted from Sterman and Sabeli, research in complex system crosses various interdisciplinary bounderies. I wondering how to widen knowledge across domains...maybe collaborative research with other disciplines...

Shaffer, Intro & Chapter 1; What is a game?

2009-02-07T16:53:00.004-05:00

What Shaffer wrote about in his introduction, resonated with me. Mostly, that teaching "content-only" in schools is no longer appropriate with increased outsourcing for "industrial" skills in America (those practiced through memorization, trained skills, standardized tests). It was necessary when schools were first created during the Industrial Revolution. But now, we need to find a way to teach students to practice innovation, creativity, and adaptability to new technologies, information, and procedures. He claims one solution is through the use of epistemic games.

Chapter 1 of Shaffer's "How computer games help children learn" gets into more detail on what a "game" really is. He explains that "fun" and "competition" aren't defining characteristics of a game (though they may be a part of games). Instead a game is an activity in which players are assigned "roles" which are governed by rules (as is the backdrop of these roles)(p23). Later Shaffer refers to these as role-playing games (but doesn't tell us what other kinds of games there are, and if they have different defining characteristics!). Role-playing games allow students to begin forming subject-specific epistemologies (ways of thinking).

In order to play these games, student learn content...but that is not the point. The point is that they are learning to think more creatively, and practice being a "professional" in some field. In the process they should be thinking critically and creatively, forming epistemologies about the subject-at-hand. Note that technology has not even been mentioned yet...this is just about games (p38)! However, I think we'd all agree that technology can give an easier platform both to present, play, and collaborate on games AND to allow students to become familiar with new/different technologies to expand their ability to adapt in the future.

My only major critique of Shaffer, so far, is a seeming contradiction he makes. On page 8 he states that what we do with technology is less important than the fact that we're just using technology; however, he goes on to state that gaming doesn't require technology, and that in using games we must be careful to set them up to encourage learning (pp39-40). Seem odd to anyone else?

Excellent conceptual paper on learning in complex systems

2009-02-07T12:22:00.002-05:00

I love this paper by Sterman. The impediments to learning in the real world provide me a better appreciation on the complex problem solving...so many dynamic variables to consider and these variables are casual. Nonetheless, system thinking is key to solve complex systems.

Fortunately, the use of virtual worlds and simulation provide means to model the complex system in a controlled environment.

looking forward to the applications of virtual world to see how things are implemented.

Low performing students and self-reflection

2009-02-05T23:33:00.003-05:00

According to Dorner (1987), it is interesting to know there is a correlation between low performing subjects and self-reflection. these subjects do not reflect as often and may lead to cognitive emergency reaction, which I would interpret it as pressing the PANICK button. I did appreciate Dorner for describing its symptons and consequences though.

Since this is a complex problem solving experiment, I am curious on how he collect the data? Using think aloud protocols or focus groups or ???

Check out Nero!

2008-02-18T23:13:00.001-05:00

Just in case anyone is still reading, I figured I'd post this.

I wish I'd seen this when we were still in class

2007-08-12T11:42:00.000-04:00

A good summary, a good reference, an opinion and assessment I can relate to.

tc

(just in case anyone is still checking this blog...)

Help Wanted in SL: Sheriff and Taxman to Watch Casinos

2007-07-26T09:48:00.000-04:00

Looks like SL is dealing with some "real life" issues with the land rush / frontier town mentality - all the bad habits and tendencies of people without oversight or law enforcement come out in full force - gambling, adult content / promiscuity - I guess you can say that there's one redeeming feature, in that avatars can't drink or do drugs (yet).

I refer to my previous posts in class discussion and on this blog about the inevitability of regulation and law enforcement and formal rules appearing in a "new world".

Perhaps this whole SL experience is an interesting experiment in repeating history, demonstrating what is so universal in the human condition, and why just being in the audience and watching this phenom play out is like watching a soap opera, a documentary, or an existential drama. Perhaps there is learning possible if you compare the trials and tribulations of SL with RL historical events. No doubt, someone will make the comparison and get a PhD studying it, very soon I would guess.

Donors Choose

2007-07-18T22:23:00.000-04:00

This is sort of an educational game — if you choose a very loose interpretation. It definitely is a cool idea though and I highly recommend taking a look at it. Also, if you have an American Express card, you've a chance to gain another $5M for them by voting for the project.

Take a look!

Low Tech. is cool too!

2007-07-08T11:58:00.000-04:00

Most of this course has, so far, focused on high tech, digital simulations and games, but, despite being a computer programmer by (former) profession, I'm almost more interested in the low tech options available.

For example, ropes courses are a fantastic and exceptionally effective tool — and I say that as a former ropes course director. One of the best experiences is having a bunch of campers come to me in the morning and leave in the afternoon as a cohesive group. I was really able to see the change in the group and it was significant each and every time!

The big draw for them was usually the high elements (forty foot traverses, rock walls, suicide rappells, etc.) because they were sort of more glamorous, but my favorites were the ground elements. The ones where you have a suspended tire and have to get all your students through it or something similar. The leadership they elicit is nice to see, but what I loved was how it truly gives everyone an opportunity to shine because you need a story and strong role-play component as well. I've had students project a concert hall filled with screaming fans and dangling electric cables onto a piece of rope and a tire. And it gives campers the opportunity to role-play as well and to shine and show off skills of all kinds.

After the experience of that summer, I seriously considered doing that sort of corporate training, but it's too much of a pain to drum up business…

As an teacher I've tried to implement some of these techniques wherever possible and when I've been able to, it really engages the students.

PowerSet - the new search

2007-07-07T00:18:00.000-04:00

This new search technology seems to be promising — have any of you seen this already? Just reading the blogs alone is educational! Unless, of course, you aren't an English-freak…

I know this isn't really a game in and of itself, but I wonder if it couldn't be used to teach effective English sentence construction?

Augmented Reality

2007-07-03T14:15:00.001-04:00

The next step? How good is simulation for learning now?

I'm being converted. But still a skeptic.

; )

tc

A visual and audible voyeuristic look at people and their avatars...

2007-06-28T10:35:00.000-04:00

This diversity of virtual world users shows a variety of reasons and expectations for using virtual worlds... from overcoming race and physical handicaps, to fun and leisure and building of self-confidence and making real dollars...

Interesting.

So, does this virtual world allow different learners with different and personal preferences for experience and learning to satisfy their perceived needs and also learn something? Or, does this new phenomena not so much support explicit or measurable objective and universal learning goals, but more give learners a way to build their selves, their sense of self-efficacy, their sense of personal control and freedom - those characteristics that support more effective learning in a more structured, traditional instructional environment?

tc

Theory of Fun

2007-06-28T10:10:00.000-04:00

Interesting blog and content on games from Sony creative guru.

tc

Surface Computing

2007-06-27T23:04:00.001-04:00

Where will this lead us???? I think it's fantastic.

tc

Dads and Kids Bonding Over Digital Games - part II

2007-06-27T18:14:00.000-04:00

There's a pattern here... I am liking this dyadic learning process and relationship development.

I guess I better start learning how to play these games now, so I have at least 8or 9 years to get a leg up on my daughters!!!

; )

tc

(I'll blow them away when I pull out my old pocket-sized game of Simon...)

One Teachers's Favorite Educational Games Site

2007-06-27T15:17:00.000-04:00

Another article available in this free on-line trade mag is a somewhat biased (towards the "Yay!" column) opinion column on the future of educational games and their impact on motivation and, among other things, "analytical thinking, team building, multitasking, and problem solving under duress":

Computer Games: Educational Technology's Next Frontier?

tc

Gamasutra.com

2007-06-26T17:05:00.000-04:00

All things games. Reviews, job postings, educational use...

Legend of the Syndicate

2007-06-26T16:38:00.000-04:00

An interesting article forwarded to me from a colleague about the publication of a book detailing the history of a guild that has been together for 10 years playing Massively Multiplayer Online Games including Ultima Online, EverQuest, and World of Warcraft. The book should be interesting for those interested not only in gaming, simulations and virtual worlds, but also in the social networking that go along with them.

http://books.slashdot.org/books/07/06/26/0239237.shtml

An Interview with James Gee...

2007-06-25T16:09:00.000-04:00

First Big Question from this interview (retrieved 25 June 2007):

"All of the research that has determined that video games have positive effects has been about low-level brain activity, such as visual acuity and multi-modal processing. Where's the research that shows that games can provide other positive effects, be they improved application of logical reasoning, increased sensitivity to moral issues, or something else?"

James Gee response:

"Here a few things worth looking at:
Jones, S., (July 6, 2003). Let the Games Begin: Games and Entertainment Among College Students." Pew Internet & American Life Project.

Durkin, K., & Barber, B., (2002). Not so doomed: computer game play and positive adolescent development. Applied Developmental Psychology, 23, 373-392.

Gros, B., (2003). The impact of digital games in education. First Monday (www.firstmonday.org), Issue 8_7.

Fischer, G., (2003). Beyond "Couch Potatoes": From Consumers to Designers and Active Contributors. First Monday (www.firstmonday.org), Issue 7_12.

However, I would not want to claim that "video games have positive effects," but rather that "video games used in different ways have different effects." We learned long ago that a technology -- television, for example -- is not "good" or "bad." When children watch television passively, it is not particularly good for them, but when they watch with adults who get them to think and talk about what they are watching, then it can be good for them. I argue that video games can be good for children and adults when played actively and thought about at a meta-level in terms of their design features and the sorts of interactions they allow or encourage.

Furthermore, I don't claim that there is now lots of research showing games are good for deeper purposes. Rather, I argue that game technology has a great potential to be useful in getting people to learn and think about things (socially, cognitively, and morally). We need to study this potential and make use of it in new settings beyond the commercial markets to which most games are directed. This enterprise is just beginning. It has taken us years of research to sort out the uses and effects of literacy as a technology in its various social, historical, and cognitive settings and situations. So the questions really are these: Is game technology a worthwhile thing to study? Does it hold potential for spreading to contexts outside gaming?

What is most powerful about video games, I would argue, is that the "consumer" (player, learner) is also a "producer." Players actively co-create the virtual worlds of games by the decisions they make and the actions they take. In opened-ended games, the game is different for every player. Further, they can fairly easily build extensions and modifications to many games."

Tom's thoughts:

So, we, as Instructional Designers, are left with this challenge, to interpret the "high-potential" for use at a "meta level", map that to specific learning situations and instructional designs and events, make decisions on its use based on our knowledge of appropriate learning principles (and theoretical foundations) and be able to justify that design element to our users and customers and the end users.

I find this argument intriguing, but lacking sufficient tangential and supporting oomph... for the same reasons Gee himself stated. Are we really just looking at yet another round of skepticism and opposing hype around a new technology? I believe 100% in technology's value, but I have some reservations about overselling the technology without the stated application of thoughtful design.

Surely, there's a lot to be done in this field to establish repeatable, research based results and knowledge, and to integrate this and other new (and in my opinion, more readily integrated) social technologies.

It's tough to counteract the inertia of history and to accommodate the burden of proof - especially when we have multiple historical references that show the it's not the tool but how we use it - and in light of the fact that we still can't seem to find significant and consistent value in the research on other relatively new technologies - i.e. LMS, WWW, virtual classrooms, etc.

Anybody thought about the effect this new "world" has on our mental models?

2007-06-24T23:25:00.000-04:00

Read this stuff about the big hullaballoo about adult content...

Listen to the words and references they make in their entries, pick out the jargon, new phrases, and word representations of how they view the SL world, with islands and a mainland, and...

If nothing else, this endeavor will embed the language, culture and ideas of a "new world" on our real world, and changes the lexicon.

Can it create a unique and new mental model for someone who is learning in SL?

tc

Millions of Us

2007-06-24T23:05:00.001-04:00

a splinter faction, hiding out in the hills of San Francisco...

read their "about us" - no mention of the word education... hmmmm...

also, Gaia - interesting, more anime like, game like for the teens who enjoy that

I believe, that this virtual world phenom will expand, SL will implode like Netscape did as they are burdened with the weight of being the trailblazer and struggle to keep their original idealism and intent manageable in the face of a competitive market and litigation and the adult content issues (remember, Netscape introduced many of us the web using a "browser"...), competitors will spring up, divert the resources and attention, and in the end, it will be, as Millions of Us clearly states, about "the future of marketing, technology, entertainment and brand-building".

OK, mark one for the adult column...

2007-06-22T21:56:00.001-04:00

Today, while chatting with other dog owners in the park (there had to have been 15 dogs, mostly labs, all dripping wet from churning up the creek), I spoke with an adult trainer - he's a 6 Sigma Blackbelt, trains people in SPC (statistical process control), and other 6Sigma concepts / skills / knowledge.

I asked him, do you ever use simulations in class? He said, "No, not yet." But he expressed interest in a couple of applications for the statistical analysis stuff. He also said he's used games with much success (based on verbal and written feedback from adult students) after using games - from MIT, developed in house at Kodak, etc. He told me that his class participants love the hands-on experience of manipulating information and scenarios to understand and explore how systems change / respond to changes, and how to envision and augment mental models about mathematics, stats, calculations, etc.

I am fully convinced, that computer visualization / simulation / and graphical representation of logical and theoretical concepts is a winner for adults and for kids. I am also convinced that people like the games and virtual hands-on when applying new learning / knowledge / skills using some interactive system - and that includes computer games, roleplays, etc.

So, I am more compelled to find ways to use these two models with different age-group learners to add practice and exploratory modeling and cause-effect visualization, and to add a little fun and interest / motivation generators in a class, as one element in an instructional design / delivery agenda.

Now, the question remains, how to get the software / games, how to evaluate those games for applicability to the class, determine the what levels of what prior knowledge and skills are required to make them more used than confused, and when in a sequence of instruction / learning to apply them.

I like the idea of using them to gain interest as a demonstration by the teacher / facilitator first, setting of expectations for when games and sims will be made available to the students, and how they can prepare to use them effectively to reduce any computer skills or knowledge anxieties.

Now, I suppose I should entertain the questions about how to use SL (if it seems appropriate for the audience and objectives of the instruction - and yes, I believe there should be objectives... not inflexible, not just test-prep, but defined expectations to work from / customize with the class) as an exploratory and presentation environment in which I can perhaps generate interest, time on task, etc. by using it.

I would also like to work with a serious user of SL to watch how they would go about organizing, prepping, scripting, and administrating an instructional event for SL - and in the delivery, rely on a learner or learners to help direct the presentation of information / imagery / etc. to make it most appealing. I really believe strongly in involving students in the learning process and delivery (age 10 and up though) - it's not just for androgogy anymore.

I would also like to work with students to assess motivation levels for the class in a way that can be measured before, during and after the instruction using alternative media.

I'm going soft, I know... but I am learnable I guess...

tc

The Song of the Dodo

2007-06-22T13:12:00.000-04:00

A tremendous book about island realities and evolution. A very tangential and divergent path to take on this SL thing, but I love this book - and David Quammen is such a fantastic writer... I used to really enjoy his column in Outside magazine a long time ago, before it became too commercialized.

I thought of this when I thought that in SL, if and when the corporate 800-lb gorillas take over SL, that is, if it ever starts generating enough eyeballs and dollars to get them in there, that there will have to be islands of non-commercial stuff, like the places and islands where researchers, educators, and other people who are more interested in the greater good than in personal gratification that SL offers many. And islands do funny things to people.

The Circle Game

2007-06-22T12:59:00.001-04:00

An interesting perspective on what is believed to be the apex of the competitiveness of professional tennis - winning by physical dominance and hyperskill. The argument here is interesting in that if we build training and set goals to just win, we lose a little something in the process, the sense of a game, the strategy, the finesse, the pleasure of the hunt perhaps... And the mighty ad dollar and the sponsorships from athletic equipment companies contribute to this. What happens if SL becomes a marketer's paradise, driving the stakes high, quickly swamping the grass-roots level aura of SL and miring it in billboards, incredibly ornate and complex structures, and then dominate the rules, politics, and practices of the highly visible and powerful in the SL world. I think that like the physical world, people will struggle to find authentic and good things, those who provide that will be forced into a niche and constantly defending their space... and the quality experiences will be reserved for those who can afford and are in the know about using SL to be a better or more successful human in the physical reality.

Sorry, I'm not a gloom and doom type, but history is a very good teacher and we all want to think the next big thing will be different.

I can hear the Paul Simon song in my head now, "Train in the Distance" - I love that song, that album (woops, that word dates me a bit...).

tc

p.s. read the book "The Black Swan" - really!!

There's gold in them thar SL hills...

2007-06-22T12:48:00.000-04:00

Hey, if the Macarthur foundation is dropping in their ante, or, in fact, upping the ante, hooray! More opps to research this phenomena - and perhaps, view this technology as something that is perceived and used differently by some people, and has potential to be a positive tool. (not like the lens I have used so far, which is, sadly, quite narcissistic, as I don't seem to see my reflection in SL, and have no desire to find it...)

I will applaud those of you who go for the gold ring on this merry go round, and either prove or dispel the hype around SL.

For my interests though, I am intrigued by this technology, will not ignore it, and have learned a good deal by exploring, but, I prefer to focus instruction and being a part of others' learning in a way that is in person, personal, physical, and engages all 5 senses. Urrr... all 6 senses for those who like my wife, tend to know things in a way I do not yet understand. I envy that.

tc

Here's One for the Memories

2007-06-22T11:39:00.000-04:00

A snapshot of 6 of us on Numbakulla (210, 16, 24) - a tour led by Micah.

Sorry, Jing and Deniz, you were not there yet and Jon, I'm not too sure where he had wandered then. Of course, we had um... 2 strangers in our midst...

As the class draws to a close, I want to thank everyone for a fun learning experience. I hope we'll keep connected via this blog, :-) or maybe have a reunion on SL, just kidding...

Missing Features of Second Life

2007-06-22T09:12:00.000-04:00

Many of us have already commented on this particular post and now I've added my 2 cents to the fray as well. I highly recommend that we read this one and its follow-up posts in light of our experiences and attempted experiences in Second Life.

impact on time committment

2007-06-22T00:07:00.000-04:00

I've posted my second question on the venerable Clark Aldrich's site. Now i get to see what the responses look like! I'm hoping for responses from more than just Mr. Aldrich himself…

It's not a true representative sample or survey, but...

2007-06-21T22:41:00.000-04:00

Are we really sure there's that many people who are game savvy, interested in gaming and / or prepared to learn from gaming and simulation on the computer?

Tonight I watched a friend's daughter's friends (4 of them at a time!!! All huddled up on the couch with these little multi-buttoned consoles they were thumbing and "driving" - for lack of a better word - they contorted their bodies with the gaming devices as if it were affecting their play) - playing a shooter game. They were monkeys, and the two boys were skilled at the game, the two girls were just playing along and expressed their blase attitude toward games and how they don't normally play them.

So I asked them, "Do you play games in school?" Nope. Although the one really good player (a male) showed some strong interest in the idea.

"Have you ever been in Second Life?" None of them had, although two of them had read about it (extensively they said). One commented, "You mean, 'Past Life'?" No comment when I asked about it - figured it was a teenager to adult non-sequitor.

Two of them thought they couldn't because they believed you had to pay for it. When I told them it was free, they were mildly surprised. One of the girls asked if you had to install anything. I said yes. She then said her dad wouldn't allow her to install anything on the computer they had at home.

All the while they were still playing and watching the quartered up TV screen (imagine 4 spasmodically changing square windshields packed into a bigger square screen of the TV).

I asked if they thought they would enjoy games if they were used in school, and the comments came back from the best male player, "Nah, we all just end up ADD in front of these games." (the "twitch mode" per Clark Aldrich)

I asked how they focused on such incredibly fast moving little screens (the best male player was able to outplay the others and watch their screens and know what was going on in their quadrant - they were working as a team - not well mind you due to the skills range and interest gaps - but the one "leader" was directing others and watching his own screen, and then directing the team to change their weapons), the one boy said you just lose focus of everything else. Hmmm... now how is that going to be good for teachable moments...???

Clearly, there was a strong divide in interest and skill levels among these 4 15-16 year olds, and it was just killing time together - like they were some interesting new species where instead of one person, they were four persons acting like a single organism. Very interesting, and I'm sure, a pre-screening of what my home will look like in 11 or 12 years.

Anyways, are we sure there's really sufficient generic interest and skills necessary to make gaming and simulation a part of the classroom? For what age groups and grades is this appropriate? And what about the male / female split? Yes, there's stats that show 2/5 of adult players are female, but what about the kids we could unleash this stuff on?

If I had seen all 4 of them (I have no idea what their academic status or proficiency was) engrossed, unable to carry on conversation with me, and all with a knowing nod let me know they were on line in SL a couple hours a night, I would have maybe changed my mind about it. But, from what I've seen among this "just driving" group, and my other buddy's kids and friends in the 10-13 age group, there's not a lot of consistency. My friend whose kids are 17-19 on the other hand, the boy is an ADD / Ritalin taker and a fanatic gamer (incredibly smart, and incredibly good, but struggling in his social "fitting in"), and his sister not interested but a very high-honors pre-college senior.

What gives?

tc

Are we using the technology to it's fullest?

2007-06-21T22:23:00.000-04:00

I'm still catching up on my reading and posting, but coincidentally, my first post also works well as a follow-up to one of Tom's earlier posts. It regards building the assessments and evaluations into the learning environment itself.

1st Question to Clark Aldrich Blog

2007-06-21T20:10:00.002-04:00

This is my first comment/question to Clark on a subject his blog addressed back in April about "Costs for Simulations ...in Education". The link back to the article and the comment is embedded in the title.

2007-06-21T20:10:00.001-04:00

Maryland Public Television's Thinkport

2007-06-21T14:17:00.000-04:00

Education games in partnership with MIT's Education Arcade.

Interesting.

tc

How Killing People With My Dad Improved Our Relationship

2007-06-21T13:18:00.000-04:00

For those carrying the flag of education for improving familial relationships, promoting healthy family values. You know, good wholesome quality time with Dad, picking off Panzers and Nazis.

Half Real

2007-06-21T11:23:00.001-04:00

An interesting perspective on games - the middle ground between real and not real - rules and fiction.

tc

I like his definition of the slippery term "play". Interestingly, there's also a book I'm looking into called The Ambiguity of Play. And, if you look up the words work and play in the dictionary, you'd be surprised at the incredible number of ways the words are used, defined, and interpreted... difficult concepts for sure.

tc

The Marketing Perspective on Edutainment and SL

2007-06-20T22:38:00.000-04:00

Slump in edutainment / game sales is said to be leading game makers to add back more of the video game sizzle experience - what impact will this have on the learning content? Can you really make an educational game that is profitable AND teaches the players something?

A marketeer's thoughts on how to swoop in on SL for marketing - for the value just the appearance of knowing what's going on in SL... but with a wise comment about the hype versus the reality of SL community numbers

I find it interesting that I had not heard of this SL phenom before I took this course, and now, when I look hard enough, everyone is saying how big this is... and how used it is, and what potential it has... and it's interesting that it got mainstream media coverage in BusinessWeek... it's going to affect us, but how much and for how long is my question... as technologies change rapidly per Moore, how much further out are we to the Minority Report full-body and mind VR and immersion, and how soon will we look back on this SL thing as if we were in the museum looking at a horse and buggy...

It's coming....

More thoughts for Clark Aldrich blog

2007-06-20T22:29:00.001-04:00

I had some thoughts on the idea of "hard fun" that might help us build sims that are challenging, but not too challenging - to keep the learner's expectations for success high, and their internal pride and sense of accomplishment flowing a little at a time and in big rushes when they reach major learning milestones in sims.

tc

My second comment on Clark Aldrich blog

2007-06-20T13:04:00.000-04:00

I find the website to be emerging as both informative and persuasive in its apparent organization, and content - and the use of one case study, especially here in the form of comparing a class to teach behaviors that used one group who just read case studies and another that used case studies and a tool to practice the behaviors - is superficially significant, but not convincing without a more thorough evaluation and comparison of other known alternatives to teaching behaviors and the big and middle skills - I would be a failure if I tried to teach a class on behavioral modeling and learning if I used only printed materials and reading exercises. Am I out of line here? I just don't see the significant value add of VL without more information and a link to the original research. It feels like this might be pulled out of context a bit for the sake of persuasion. Whaddya think?

Is the Internet dumbing us down?

2007-06-20T12:57:00.000-04:00

Not sure if anyone read this from MSNBC. It made me think about some of our discussions where we debated whether pandering to the digital natives with hypertext minds was a worthwhile effort. This article talks about the wisdom of the crowds vs the devaluation of the quality and depth of reporting and information from an expert.

Is there a middle way? Read to find out, :-).

Two good research and scholarly references

2007-06-20T11:50:00.000-04:00

NESTALAB Literature Review in Games and Learning

Does collaborative game play enhance learning with an educational game?
(UTwente project description)

Tom's blog comments for Clark Aldrich

2007-06-20T11:47:00.000-04:00

I've added my comments on the lack of fidelity being an impedance to using these evolving and maturing 3D environments to promote learning for near or far transfer, outside of some conceptual, exploratory, and declarative knowledge learning that can be just as readily supported with less cog load and effort using more traditional multimedia and tools.

Top Secret Adventures from Highlights

2007-06-20T10:55:00.000-04:00

I recently received an offer in the mail to try out Hightlights "Top Secrest Adventures" book club for my kids. I usually don't open this type of mail, but thought I'd check it out to see if it might be something worth subscribing to as a gift for one of the kids in my life. It is described as a bookclub in which...

"children are introduced to 27 different countries, one at a time, through a mystery and adventure series.

Starting with a jigsaw puzzle that reveals a mystery, kids become young puzzle detectives. They learn about the people, culture, terrain, history, and geography of the featured country while searching for clues to solve the who, what, and where of the mystery. Top Secret Adventures will help expand knowledge and stimulate curiosity in children as they gain understanding of other cultures."

It offers one no obligation, free adventure to decide whether to subscribe. I'm planning to accept the free kit to check out for my own curiosity sake in terms of how the "game" is set up. Once my curiosity is settled, I will give it to a friends son who is really into reading and interactive adventures...

Yin's 2nd Comment on Clark's Blog

2007-06-20T10:32:00.000-04:00

My second comment was posted in response to my impressions of Clark's VL product - from what little I could view via the Youtube clips. I am impressed by the inclusion of so much instructional support - scaffolding, feedback, and the avatar behaviors! A question I had been thinking of asking him the night of June 14 never got asked, so I'm posting it under his post, System Content: The 7 models in a sim

Yin's First Comment on Clark's Blog

2007-06-20T09:36:00.000-04:00

I posted this response to Clark's blog on the Top 10 missing features of SL. Just some thoughts about my personal experience in SL. BTW, it's in 2 parts because I was not thinking too clearly at this point of the day (9 AM) and realized I wasn't responding to his post coherently, :-).

The Life of the Chinese Gold Farmer

2007-06-19T10:22:00.000-04:00

youxi gongzuoshi, or gaming workshops...

interesting stuff, and how strange we are living, creating non-tangible, imaginary worlds and experiences...

are we avoiding or escaping something?

are we being environmentally friendly because people use coal-burning power and eco-tragic dammed up rivers to work on computers and caffeine instead of driving to work?

it's an interesting and complex new aspect of our global economy and human culture for sure...

tc

Miss Second Life 2007

2007-06-17T20:52:00.000-04:00

I blogged about this on my individual blog but thought I should share it here with all of you. Apparently, there's a lot of SL blogs and a number of SL residents also have Flickr and YouTube accounts to share their exploits.

This blog belongs to Miss Second Life 2007. She keeps a fascinating diary of her life and store in SL, lists places to visit, creates tutorials on 3D modeling, and she has a SL guide for newbies and where you should go to kick off, etc.

Note: She has links to other SL blogs which may contain mature content (I didn't check everything out).

Second Life

2007-06-17T17:02:00.000-04:00

Some more information on educational use of SL

I found all of these in the Second Life official guide.

Collaboration with other educators:

Join the Real Life Education Group… Search for “Real Life Education” under groups and click Join. This way you’ll be in touch with all the educators while you are in the SL.
Subscribe to Educators Mailing List… address: https://lists.secondlife.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/educators
General page for education in SL: http://secondlife.com/education

Examples of education places:

Campus region: main hub for classes participating in the campus. there are classes and projects being held on the mainland SL or private islands.

Harvard’s Berkman Center owns a private island called “Berkman” where they built Auistin Hall to hold conferences and meetings.

New Media Consortium has created an experimental space called “ NMC Campus” . They are exploring learning and collaboration in SL. For latest info : http://www.nmc.org/sl

A group of librarians with the Alliance Library System in Illinois has created info island. For more info: http://infoisland.org

International Spaceflight Museum…You can create something that could be impossible to built in real life educational settings.

A stroke survivor created a space called “Dreams” to provide self-support for other stroke survivors.