Project Profile

Digispired ii encourages seventy students to investigate mathematics, science, and engineering principles such as kinematics and kinesthetics related to the use of game controllers like wiimotes and dance pads in the process of creating games using a professional game authoring system. Building on a previous successful ITEST Strategies project, some of the students will be followed for an additional three years in high school and compared with similar students who participate for only three years. Students broaden their view of STEM and expand their thinking about STEM careers. To sustain the project even further, 48 teachers will be trained to create instructional games that address STEM concepts using Scratch and Alice and to integrate them into their instruction. Research will continue on gender differences in game creation. The research findings from six years of the game design project contribute to the knowledge on game-based education, strategies for STEM preparation, research-based instructional practices, and successful strategies for after-school implementation.