Crosstalk Seminar - Thu, Dec 9, 1:00 p.m.

Handheld Games and Simulations for Learning - Participatory Simulations and Augmented Reality
Eric Klopfer, Director of the MIT Teacher Education Program (TEP), Scheller Career Development Professor of Science Education and Educational Technology

Date: Thursday, December 9, 2004

Time: 1:00 p.m. (Please note time change!)
Room: 4-231

Abstract
The growing sophistication of mobile technologies brings with it the power to introduce new learning environments and experiences. The most powerful uses of handheld technologies require working with their limitations and affordances. The PDA is best used to present an extra layer of data to supplement information that users receive from their real world context - such as readings from simulated instruments, interviews from virtual occupants of nearby buildings, or real life interactions with their classmates.

We have been building simulations on handheld computers that involve K-16 students in authentic activities such as large scale environmental engineering investigations, genetic data collection and analysis and epidemiological studies that track the progression of disease through populations. These simulations empower students with a new kind of learning as they try to harness technology to solve authentic complex problems. Currently we are not only developing new simulations (and distributing them to thousands of students and teachers via the internet), but also conducting educational research showing how and what students learn from these environments.

Biography
Eric Klopfer is the Director of the MIT Teacher Education Program
(http://education.mit.edu), and the Scheller Career Development Professor of
Science Education and Educational Technology at MIT. Klopfer's research
focuses on the development and use of computer games and simulations for
building understanding of science and complex systems. His research
projects include StarLogo, a desktop platform that enables students and
teachers to create computer simuations of complex systems, as well as

location aware and participatory simulations on handheld (Palm and PocketPC)
and wearable computers. Klopfer's work combines the construction of new
software tools with research and development of new pedagogical supports
that support the use of these tools in the classroom. He is the co-author
of the book, "Adventures in Modeling: Exploring Complex, Dynamic Systems
with StarLogo."

Here is a link to the slides from the presentation.