ACIA - A course design approach to game design theory

Abstract

Based on constructivist teaching and experiential learning, this research proposes ACIA (stands for Authentic Learning, Learning Community, Interaction, and Assessment) to structure a course of game design theory. Its framework includes: (1) an experiential learning:the college students have to design an educational game for elementary students; (2) a web-based learning community, unlimited to different majors, for inspiring cooperative learning from different stakeholders, as communicating channel for game developers, for obtaining meaningful interaction and guidance fromteachers; and (3) Evaluation, adopting self-assessment, peer and performance assessment to specifically reflect the knowledge, skills, and attitudes in students' learning. A game design theory course with the above three elements can motivate students' active learning and develop their advanced thinking skills. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.