A Web-Based Simulated World as a Vehicle to Promote Global Competence in Middle School

• In Event: 34.078 - Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: 34.078-14 - Technology Platforms and Practices

Abstract

Examines the impact of a web-based simulated world on middle school students’ motivation for the domain of social studies and their understanding of global competence. Using a pretest-posttest design, thirty-six (n = 36) students made economic and political decisions as leaders of simulated countries. The participants worked to develop their countries during eight two-hour sessions, confronting a variety of national and international challenges. The results of the study found a significant positive change in participants’ understanding of global competence, as well as high sustained motivation for the simulation itself. However, participants’ motivation for the domain of social studies did not change. Implications for educators and designers are discussed, along with possibilities for future research.

Authors

• Seungoh Paek, University of Hawaii - Manoa

• Daniel L. Hoffman, Kamehameha Schools

• Helen O. Au, University of Hawaii at Manaoa