John Van der Baaren

A case study on the design and development of minigames for research methods and statistics

Research methodology involves logical reasoning and critical thinking skills which are core competences in developing a more sophisticated understanding of the world. Acquiring expertise in research methods and statistics is not easy and poses a significant challenge for many students. The subject material is challenging because it is highly abstract and complex and requires the coordination of different but inter-related knowledge and skills that are all necessary to develop a coherent and usable skills base in this area. Additionally, while many students embrace research methods enthusiastically, others find the area dry, abstract and boring. In this paper we discuss the design and the first evaluation of a set of mini-games to practice research methods. Games are considered to be engaging and allow students to test out scenarios which provide concrete examples in a way that they typically only do once they are out in the field. The design of a game is a complex task. First, we describe how we used cognitive task analysis to identify the knowledge and competences required to develop a comprehensive and usable understanding of research methods. Next, we describe the games designed and how 4C-ID, an instructional design model, was used to underpin the games with a sound instructional design basis. Finally, the evaluation approach is discussed and how the findings of the first evaluation phase were used to improve the games.

Authoring for simulation-based learning

This paper describes the SAM (Simulation and Multimedia) project and the rationales behind it. SAM focuses mainly on integrated simulation-based learning environments and creates a framework for authoring, modelling and learning. In these frameworks existing software tools are used where possible and an exchange of tools is enabled. Specialised tools support all actors: learners, authors and modellers. Emphasis will be put on methodologies and graphical tools supporting global course design and integration of simulations. Tools enable also the implementation of general and local course control including instructions for the monitor to recognise and evaluate learner behaviour.SAM methods and techniques are developed to design adaptable courses to meet different learner profiles and to integrate simulations in courseware. This implies a technical integration: the simulation package must accept external control and support an exchange of data. It also implies a conceptual integration: instructional domain concepts must be connected with the model entities; variables, parameters and relations.Instructional objects created with existing authoring tools are incorporated into SAM by specifying a script. The resulting Instructional Scripted Objects (ISOs) enable a smooth transition between different applications and constitute control mechanisms on a local level. These ISOs serve as building blocks within the SAM environment. By connecting these ISOs with a curriculum graph new courses and learning strategies are implemented. Simulation ISOs are offered allowing different levels of freedom: from fully system guided tasks to learner controlled experiments. The monitoring of learner actions and simulation states is possible. Creating and tuning simulations to support instruction will be a collaborative act for author and modeller.

Acquiring 21st Century Skills: gaining insight in the design and applicability of a serious game with 4C-ID

The work described in this paper was partially supported by the European Community under the Lifelong Learning Programme project CHERMUG nr. 519023-LLP-1-2011-1-UK-KA3-KA3MP. The paper does not represent the opinion of the European Community, and the European Community is not responsible for any use that might be made of its content.