Reframing Imagination in Educational Games: A Systematic Review Using Critical Theory and Indigenous Perspectives

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 11:45 am - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: New Framings for Critical Media Research

Abstract

Games in education can be enjoyable for students and exceed the effectiveness of other media in certain contexts. However, unlike other media used in education, historical and ideological influences on the design and narrative of games are not as widely discussed in the context of their learning implementation. Better understanding of these influences is essential to designing and implementing educational gameplay experiences of diverse student audiences. This systematic review uses thematic synthesis to analyze commentary on ideology, race, and ethnicity in games and their appearance in educational games through a critical theory lens. It concludes with an overview of counterideologies in game design, such as indigenous perspectives, that provide alternatives to standardized game elements.

Author

• Jennifer Sutcliffe, Michigan State University