STEM and Game Making Resources

Making Educational Games

On February 16, 2012, CPB / PBS Kids Ready to Learn Initiative hosted a webinar on making games for the PBS Kids Stream of the 2012 Challenge. The webinar features resources, Q and A, and a presentation on making educational games with Gamestar Mechanic by members of the Gamestar Team.

• Streaming link to the webinar recording: link.
• Downloadable link to the webinar recording: link.
• Slides: link.

Learn about STEM through BrainPOP’s animated, curriculum-based content.

Framework for K-12 Science Education

By the National Research Council

The National Research Council’s 2011 Framework for K-12 Science Education provides unifying guidance for educators to improve all students’ understanding of science, and will serve as the basis for the next generation of science standards, replacing the National Science Education Standards authored back in 1996 (NRC, 1996).

As you design your science-themed game, please consult the 2011 Framework’s three dimensions to ensure that game goals acknowledge any number of items outlined in each:

• Dimension 1. Scientific and engineering practices
• Dimension 2. Crosscutting concepts that have common application across fields
• Dimension 3. Core ideas in four disciplinary areas

Science-themed submissions may take place in any area of science. For examples of content areas, entrants are encouraged to refer to Dimension 3 listed above.

To download a prepublication draft of the full 20110NRC report (the link above is to a summary), click here.

The Common Core Math Standards

The Common Core State Standards Initiative is a state-led effort coordinated by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO). The standards were developed in collaboration with teachers, school administrators, and experts, to provide a clear and consistent framework to prepare our children for college and the workforce.

To check out the Common Core Standards in Mathematics click here.

Video Games and Learning

STEM-themed submissions should emphasize the effective use of technology and/or engineering skills to promote content learning and inquiry that is age appropriate. Two good resources describing how video games can be used to promote learning are:

• GameChanger: Investing in Digital Play to Advance Children's Learning and Health by Ann My Thai, David Lowenstein, Dixie Ching, and David Rejeski
• Moving Learning Games Forward by Eric Klopfer, Scot Osterweil, and Katie Salen