FudgeRounds_N_Coke

What would you hope a student going through your curriculum would achieve? For instance, Common Core pushes the four 21st century competencies (communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking). Do you see your program as a technologically driven vehicle for the same end?

So your program is more interested in creating extrinsic motivators (that may or may not lead to intrinsic motivation) to encourage learning than developing an alternative curriculum for students. The goals of the curriculum are not new, but the tools are. Why not develop these programs for schools to implement into their existing structure? Is your school for-profit?

I appreciate your replies and am excited that you are attempting something so ambitious. Game-based learning is something I've read about, and I am interested in its potential and implementation. I'd love to be involved with the development or at least get updates about the SOA.

As an American, I am quite disenchanted with the direction in which public schools are heading. New ideas, like the SOA, have the potential to change the game or at least enrich the conversation.

Two more questions:

I wonder what research and data you use as you develop your organization. You mentioned you wanted your students to make SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-bound) goals and decisions and have responsible outcomes. What research focuses your SMART goals for your company ?

Also, is there a fear that the goal for "players" of your game will be more about the leveling-up, badges, and other rewards than true education (as nebulous as that phrase may be)? Granted, learning will take place, but it can be a superficial endeavor as kids grind through a mission for their next accomplishment.

Thanks

Did you receive any pedagogical training during your education? If not, does your university provide that training to lecturers? Do you believe this type of training should be necessary?