Abstract
Science learning, though bound to broader learning theories, is a research area on its own. Science subject domains share special characteristics: they are like wide nested concept nets - most of which are either abstract or not available to direct observation. For this reason the authors advocate that game-based and simulation-based pedagogies are promising tools for learning. Recently the authors have noticed two characteristics that would further empower the use of these strategies: (1) the widespread use of mobile technology among youngsters with continuous increase in processing power and internet access, and (2) the strong affordances games could provide in learning activities.
TopOverview
The development of science learning games for mobile devices has been seen as a new line of research and technological development in the field of educational technology, science education and information design.
It is difficult to name pioneers or leading scholars in these fields (Games and Learning; Mobile Learning; Science Education and Game Design), not because it is rather new but because it is intrinsically multidisciplinary. One pioneer on Games For Learning studies is certainly professor James Paul Gee, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 2003, he wrote the [perhaps] most influential book on the subject: What video games have to teach us about learning and literacy? He could also be pointed out as a leading scholar, since he is a prolific author. Another author who could also be named as a pioneer and leading scholar is MIT professor Eric Klopfer, director of Scheller Teacher Education Program and of The Education Arcade project. Professor Klopfer's main contributions are in the field of Mobile Learning.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Science Based Game Learning: Refers to pedagogical practices for teaching science using games.
Educational Games: Refers to games designed with educational purposes in mind.
Game Design: refers to the process of specification of a game, including its mechanics and gameplay.
Science Game Design: Refers to the process of designing an educational science game considering the issues raised by science education.
Mobile Learning: Refers to learning with mobile devices, including applications/gadgets which were not designed for learning purposes.
Games for Learning: Refers to games used for learning purposes, including games which were not designed for learning purposes.
Science Education: Refers to specific issues of learning sciences, such as naïve conceptions and theories.