EDTEC 655 Min Tech Review #3

I reviewed the website: http://www.classroomsim.com/

First of all, I found the program could not be run on my computer successfully, but I managed to get the gist of the website from the entry page. Here is my review.

Teacher Prep: What kind of teacher prep is available to train teachers how to use the item effectively? How important do you see teacher training to be in regard to implementing a sim/game/MUVE?

This simulation game would be useful in teacher preparation classes in a limited sense. It would be useful to have teacher preparatin students work with this simulation game before they begin student teaching. It does have some real world situations on what could happen in a classroom, however nothing substitutes for actually being in a classroom experiencing these things first hand.

Class Size: How would a large class size (25-30 students) affect the implementation of this game/sim/MUVE into the curriculum? Are there guidance systems that can be used to mitigate for large class size?

I would be very careful of the class size used when playing any simulation game. If the purpose of the game is to learn the different concepts presented in the game, then the smaller the class the better. The instructor needs to be able to provide assistance and guidance for the students and in a larger class size, this would proved to be problematic. If the small class size is not an option, then using the game with an LCD projector would provide for discussion as each of the events came up.

Learner Engagement: Does the game/sim/MUVE work for a broad range of abilities, learners? Does it have pedagogical "depth" or is it for a niche purpose?

I had a difficult time getting the game to work on my computer, so I will say that, theorectically speaking, the use of simulation games would provide for a broad range of learners if the text is read for the learner. Then you can say that it works for a broad range of abilities and learners.

Infrastructure: Is the game expandable to numerous users across network/platfrom structures?

I think it is.