Learning Game Disciplines

Abstract

Abstract As you get started on your project to create a serious game for learning, it is important for you to recognize that you and your team will likely need the skills of several different disciplines to achieve success. Usually, this means that you will be working with colleagues who have been trained in a different field from yours. By better understanding what the key concerns and methods of their disciplines are, you will better understand where your teammates are coming from and the processes they are used to. We introduce the standard methods used in the supporting fields of instructional system design, software development, game design, assessment development, and story creation and discuss some of the main strengths of each area as well as some of the typical challenges that practitioners in each area face. Introduction So, you’re thinking of developing a game to help teach some valuable knowledge and/or skills. How do you go about designing and developing your learning game efi ciently? What steps are involved? Who needs to be involved? What are the gotchas to be aware of and how do you address those issues effectively? How do you ensure that your learning game successfully engages your learners while effectively teaching them?