Civilization IIIA case study of games in education

Bill MacKenty, M.Ed.

Civilization is...

An award winning COTS game

Players assume the role of ruler building a civilization

from 4000 BC to near future

Players manage & control a multitude of variables to win the game

Links to History....

Manage variables...

Technology advances...

Engage in diplomacy...

Utilize Natural Resources...

Protect, explore, & build...

Winning....

Losing...

An exceptional opportunity

Choices effect outcomes

A note on losing and computer games

fun

ask kids to lose!

When the playing is done...

Players have successfully juggled all the above dynamics

Players have used different strategies and problem-solving techniques...at different points in the game

Players have a deeper understanding of the previously mentioned dynamics

Notes...

Turn-based, isometric-point of view

Saving and save points are good

Tutorial isn’t so great

Highly acceptable use of violence (animated and appropriate)

Links to content

Questions? Comments?