Intuitive Evolution Education via Evolution in Game Mods

• In Event: Science Teaching and Learning: Educational Technology

Abstract

The understanding and acceptance of evolution by natural selection has become a difficult issue in many parts of the world, particularly the United States of America. The use of games to improve intuition about evolution via natural selection is promising but can be challenging. We propose the use of modifications to commercial games using evolutionary algorithms to "stealth teach" about evolution via natural selection and provide a proof-of-concept mod of the game Stardew Valley.

Authors

• Anya E Vostinar, Carleton College

• Barbara Zebe Johnson, Grinnell College

• Kevin Connors