learning patterns for the design and deployment of mathematical games

Are you a teacher who wants to help your students learn in new ways?

The abstract nature of mathematics makes it a continuous challenge for teachers to engage students. One solution has been through the use of computer games. Teachers are creative in using a varaity of resources in the classroom, but if they are not ardent gamers themselves - identifying the potentials of a computer game is a hard challenge in itself.

Are you a researcher interested in new developments in technology-enhanced learning?

As an educational researcher you may be looking into incorporating games in your field of interest, as a technology researcher you may want to identify educational applications for your work. In both cases, you are faced with a problem of bridging across disciplines.

Are you a policy maker considering the role of games in mathematics education?

Should school curricula include computer games? This may sound strange at first, but it is hard to argue with the power of games in engaging and stimulating young minds.
Yet, if we want to let games in through the front door, we need some clear criteria for selection and guidelines for use.

Are you a parent concerned about the benefits and harms of computer games?

Children are spending more and more time playing computer games. Some of these are heralded as 'educational', some are critisized as coruptive. How do you assess the impact of games on your child?

Are you a journalist interested in these issues?

We are exploring the design and use of computer games to understand maths. If you found yourself asking these questions, it may have something to offer you. Read on for more details.

Learning Patterns is a Jointly Executed Integrating Research Project of the Kaleidoscope Network of Excellence.