Do constructionists use direct instruction? | #CSK8 Podcast highlight with Jared O'Leary
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In this episode I unpack El-Nasr and Smithโs (2006) publication titled โLearning through game modding,โ which describes two case studies on modifying video games to learn software development and design, as well as programming, artistic, and video game concepts.
Article
El-Nasr, M. S., & Smith, B. K. (2006). Learning Through Game Modding. ACM Computers in Entertainment, 4(1), 1โ20.
Abstract
โThere has been a recent increase in the number of game environments or engines that allow users to customize their gaming experiences by building and expanding game behavior. This article describes the use of modifying, or modding, existing games as a means to learn computer science, mathematics, physics, and aesthetic principles. We describe two exploratory case studies of game modding in classroom settings to illustrate skills learned by students as a result of modding existing games. We also discuss the benefits of learning computer sciences skills (e.g., 3D graphics/mathematics, event-based programming, software engineering, etc.) through large design projects and how game design motivates students to acquire and apply these skills. We describe our use of multiple game modding environments in our classes. In addition, we describe how different engines can be used to focus students on the acquisition of particular skills and concepts.โ
Author Keywords
Experimentation, design, games and education, game engines and classrooms, learning and design.
My One Sentence Summary
This article describes two case studies on modifying video games to learn software development and design, as well as programming, artistic, and video game concepts.
Some Of My Lingering Questions/Thoughts
Why do some coding platforms encourage modding or remix practices while others do not afford such possibilities?
If modding practices are so great, why not do them all the time? In other words, at what point should we encourage developing something from a blank screen instead of modifying existing code?
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Each episode of the #CSK8 Podcast explores research, experiences, or perspectives on computer science education through interviews with computer science educators, scholars, and administrators, as well as episodes that summarize and unpack implications of research for classroom teachers who are interested in learning more about practical applications of research in their classroom.
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