Game playing

Last week we tryed out different video games and looked at their educational value. The game consoles we used were the Nintendo DS, Playstation, Xbox, Xbox Kinect and the Nintendo Wii. We felt that some of the consoles were more useful than others. The DS had alot of problems in that it couldn't recognise our voices or handwriting, however it had alot of mathematical value. We played Prince of Persia on the Playstation and felt that it had value for use in history or literacy, but actual game play may not be suitable for use in school. The F1 racing game on the Xbox could teach aspects of engineering or mechanics. Xbox Kinect and the Wii were useful for allowing you to experience something more firsthand than you may otherwise be able, such as sking.

Game Maker

I missed this week's technology session as I was ill, feeling better now though, and have just attempted to make my own game using game maker. At first I didn't have a clue what I was doing, but after a while I got the hang of it and didn't need to read the tutorial to do absolutely everything! I thought it was really interesting to be able to make your own games, set your own goals and scores etc. This makes it much more engaging and fun to play! Not too keen on the music though, not really my style!

The debate

The debate went well I thought - considering we were all unfamiliar with the structure! The speakers did really well - well done girls! We were for video games in the classroom, and we won!

Video games in the classroom....

Can video games really be a valuable learning tool? Experienced 1066, a historical war game which although was fun to play, didn't really teach me anything about the subject! The big debate rages today....

London

Back from BETT, lots of freebies, information gathered and fun! Hywel became pregnant investigating the real baby programme and Louise adopted a pig! Fantastic time had in London, need to do it all again!

New Year

2011 and more ICT! London trip on Thursday, BETT and Priscilla await.....