Next week, Deepak Keshwani, an Associate Professor of Biological Systems Engineering at UNL, will share reflections on a multi-year effort to develop research-based educational video games on agroecosystem sustainability and systems-thinking.
Title:
reFEWSing to give-up:reflections on a multi-year effort to develop research-based educational video games on agroecosystem sustainability and systems-thinking
Abstract:
Agroecosystems are facing a myriad of complex challenges such as climate change, invasive species, aquifer depletion, workforce deficits, etc. Our youth will be the ones grappling with the impacts of these challenges and contributing to solutions. It is therefore critical to equip youth with knowledge about these issues, and skills necessary to critically assess and implement creative solutions. A multi-year project developed science-based educational video games supplemented with systems-thinking curricula to engage youth in formal and non-formal learning spaces. Game-based learning offers an educational approach for youth to engage complex issues, build empathy for diverse stakeholders, and test different solutions to address challenges in a low-stakes and fun way. A theoretical framework was developed to transform scientific research models and data into two serious educational games (SEGs); Prairie Protector, and Agpocalypse. Systems-thinking curricula using an easily accessible modeling tool (LOOPY) was developed to support learning from these games. Student focus groups from implementation in both informal and formal learning spaces indicated that students were evolving solutions to problems and developing empathy with stakeholders. Some students self-initiated conversations at home with parents after participating in game-based learning further highlighting the engagement value of this approach. Professional development workshops on game-based learning were conducted for extension and K-12 educators.
Date: Thurs., 9/15, from 2-3pm
Place: 109 Bessey Hall or via Zoom at https://unl.zoom.us/j/212107342
Meeting ID: 212 107 342
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Meeting ID: 212 107 342
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