Last week I sent out an email to all Sunraysia Mallee Schools asking if any teachers were interested in using game creation in the curriculum. It’s the sort of constructivist/constructionist learning that can really help students do some deep thinking. The whole process involves project design, analytical thinking, problem solving, and engagement. That’s some of the reasons I really like using software like Microworlds, Logo and Mindstorms for robotics – “it’s serious fun” as Seymour Papert would say.
The only problem with this scenario, is that it’s often hard to convince teachers to spend the money on the software. However, in terms of game creation, there are a few free alternatives!
First up is Game Maker. Written in the Netherlands by Mark Overmars, Game Maker is graphical environment for developing games without the need to learn complex programming languages. It offers drag and drop actions and allows you to create professional looking games without having to write computer code.
Secondly, is Scratch. Created by the “Lifelong Kindergarten Group” at MIT, Scratch is a graphical programming language that lets you control the actions and interactions among different media. In Scratch you program different media by snapping together blocks of code like you would with Lego bricks. It’s very easy to get started and can be used with children from Grade 2 or 3 and above.
I will be posting more information about both the software programs and the project shortly. If you’re interested in jumping on board please drop me a line: ictguy@gmail.com