EDTEC 655 Mini Review #4

For this review I explored the website http://lgl.gameslearningsociety.org/games/php

To help frame my review I have answered the following questions:

1. Could you see yourself integrating AR games into your own curriculum? If so, would it be one of the eight games from the site above (as is or modified) or would you have to create something more specific to your subject area?

I really liked the Arboretum Game. It is a game designed for 1st through 5th grade students. "Created as a quick design exercise, the game leads players through the Arboretum as they explore different sections if it, look for plants and animals, and learn about the ecological attributes of its infrastructure." This is a great way to make science and social studies relevant to students in the elementary grades. The other games looked great, but the were geared more toward middle and high school students. In these settings, I can see a great benefit of the AR games in the curriculum. I like the way "Hip Hop Tycoon" integrate reading comprehension and math skills into the unit plan and game. Very nice site.

2. What do you feel are the benefits and/or detriments when looking at of integrating augmented reality games into your curriculum?

One of the benefits of using augmented reality games in the district curriculum is the ability to make the curriculum come alive for the students. This is one site that is very well done and could be beneficial to a district if used in the correct way.

3. Take one of the modeling ideas/reviews from the other group and apply it to your curriculum.

"The cycle of plant growth – photosynthesis – is difficult for most people I think, including students. That is one that no mater how many times one hears it, a physical model would likely aid in understanding. Also, the water cycle – evaporation, humidity, rain, etc." This is an example submitted by by Diana that could be a perfect lesson for the Arboretum Game. The AR model fo plant growth could be played out during the game.

Overall this was ag reat site. I would recommend this for educators.