The Creation of an E-learning Storyboard

Part 3 - Simulations and Games to Enhance Learning

Clark and Mayer assert that the use of games and simulations in e-learning activities absolutely increase enjoyment of the activity, that being said it is crucial that the design of the game promotes learning.  In other words, a user will not benefit from a game that is fun that merely relates to the subject matter at hand, however enhanced learning will result from the user who enjoys a game that has been designed in the pursuit of the objective.  As it applies to the "Using Maps" storyboard, a game akin to "Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?" would be an appropriate, and fun way to engage students in the practices.  This YouTube video  shows a demo of the original version of this game.

This game, or a game like it could easily be incorporated into "Using Maps" with, instead of giving the city or location, giving the coordinates, or it could also be incorporated into the ideas about how knowing and understanding latitude helps identify the characteristics of a location.  An "action-adventure" or "role playing game like this would help ensure learning because a lack of understanding of the concept ceases the progress of the game.  If the player does not go to the correct city, or does not identify the correct environment, he or she loses the "culprit" and the game is over.  A game like this also provides the opportunity for explanatory feedback.

Example: Lizard Lips Louis stole a painting from the Louvre, rumor has it he found the nearest country with an environment he could thrive in.  Where might he have gone?  Cassablanca, Morocco (33°35’ N, 7°36’ W), Winnepeg, Canada (49°53’ N, 97°8’ W), or Punta Arenas, Chile  (53°10’ S, 70°56’ W).

In this example, if the user does not answer the question correctly, there will be the opportunity to explain about where lizards are able to live.  Additionally, this example would promote a degree of self-explanation.  The user would have to ask himself "where would a lizard go and why?" it would also force the student to ask "where is the Louvre?  What is close to it?"

Obviously, the demo of "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego posted above is "primitive" in terms of graphic capabilities and would need to be updated to attract a gamer in the modern world, but embracing the general method would enhance the users learning opportunity.

Using Map - Storyboard