Game-Infused Science Curriculum: From Transformational Play to Real-World Impact

• In Event: Game Design and Assessment in the Classroom

Abstract

The Mystery of Taiga River is a game-based science experience (water quality and scientific inquiry) designed with the goal of positioning middle school students as investigative reporters who must investigate, learn and apply scientific concepts (scientific investigation, water quality indicators, eutrophication, etc.) to solve applied problems in a virtual park, and restore the health of the fish without alienating various stakeholders. A core challenge in this work was balancing deep engagement in a game-based immersive world with the impact goal of supporting the learning of scientific content. Here we report on the underlying educational theory, the game itself, and briefly share data from an implementation with over 400 7th grade Hispanic students from a low socio-economic school district.

Authors

• Sasha A. Barab, Arizona State University

• Anna Arici, Arizona State University