HGSET545

First off, I really stopped playing the major video game titles after I beat Super Mario Bros. II. It took me like 4 months to best Bowser, but once I did and the world pretty much remained the same I lost interest. Still, I cannot say all the new games that have come out recently don't peak my interest. The problem, I have been out of the gaming loop for so long now that I am at a serious disadvantage whenever I play. The controllers have become so complkicated and sensative that I spend most of the initial induction just trying to figure out what the hell I am supposed to do, and what combonation of clicks and toggles prompts the desired effect. Nintendo's Wii however seemingly streamined the learning curve as my body was the primary controller. Sony is now prepping to launch an entirely new controller protocol that uses the functions of the handheld even less. It might even eliminate the need for a controler all together...all body, all movement are calibrated and support the players avatar.

Research paper on "recreational learning objects" in this case a math-based computer game, which was shown to increase motivation in Mexican high schoolers.

A model for engagement in classrooms created by an initiative in Maine.

Commentary on a new report showing how extensively kids use media

This article proposes that one of the reasons to integrate technology into the curriculum is to support active engagement in learning.  

This organization has recently be approved by Congress and the Dept. of Education to provide grants for the research and development of technology related to education.

Moral Kombat takes a look into the controversial subject of violence in video games. Director Spencer Halpin shows the constant conflict between the game creators' first amendment right to make a violent game and the eminent threat that violence poses on the next generation. In addition, the film is full of the latest green screen and high-definition technology that allow watchers to actually envision the world of gaming. Filled with interviews from lead game designers, politicians, parents, and psychologists, this film provides a candid take on the influence games have on youth today.

Apple iPad

First thing I think is K-12 education. The schools, like where I work, that give each kid a laptop could make their money go so much further with these. Kids rarely do more than research online and word process. This could take care of that for $500

oooh....Would be pretty cool to have these! - just thinking of all the "on-the-go" activities you could have the kids doing!... and if you're really smart you could remotely track their learning/progress/engagement..... a tool that could really help teeachers take learning out of the classroom & into the world, and still manage the tedious recording & assesment requriements!

Survey reveals shift in media consumption habits across generations... my gran uses email at 92 so....

Augmented reality, engaging kids to plant digital "seeds" for adults to find.

Interesting article discussing a study showing that the size of certain brain structures can predict video game performance

$50, 000 grant for developers to develop engaging video games for children that promote learning. I am thinking about it!

YES...I am engaged! This strikes me as a perfect crossover for entertainment and educational apps.

Article discussing a study showing that media use by children has increased significantly in the past 5 years.

Another e-reader option

Touting how addictive a video game can become for players is an interesting selling point. I am thinking it means, fast highs, quick death (of avatar, etc) and replayability. I would describe THE MORON TEST available on iTunes as having those addictive qualities.

Interesting take on engagement and motivation. Very prescient given tomorrow's pending announcement.