Pre Game Level - 0:
This level is basic lecture that at one time, was the basic framework of all education. It is the quickest way of covering large amounts of information in a short period of time. This is typically why it is employed in history classrooms which always have more material to cover than time. It has been my experience both in observation and practice. Aldrich argues that it is the easiest to prepare but that is not always the case. It can take a long period of time to prepare and a lifetime to perfect.
Pre Game Level -1:
This course relationship still relies heavily on lecture with the occasional pause to ask a single-answer question. A student responds and the lecture continues. As this falls closely in line with my zero level comments, I will not repeat. This method is also used to ascertain if the students have completed assigned reading, gauge understanding, harness student attention. I have observed and employed this technique many times also.
Pre Game Level -2:
In this level, the instructor gauges audience knowledge and understand and will reteach or skip forward based on audience response. I have not witnessed this often as instructors generally want to assure understanding with the all and will spend time helping students who are confused or did not complete the assignment at the expense of the whole. I have witnessed a statistics professor "lay it all out" for a student who didn't understand the lesson. The professor stated, "You do not understand the lesson because you rarely attend class and have probably not been keeping up with the homework. I am not going to waist the time of everyone else, who have been working hard in this class, be trying to explain concepts we discussed a week ago." The class was euphoric! This students had received his midterms and had all of a sudden started paying attention. He tried joining our study group and we would not let him in. I was a reality check this guy needed to hear. The student went on to get his act together and now practices law in Chicago. I feel that we as educators are forced to pander to the masses at the expense of all. Lessons can and should be learned by failure. I have learned many lessons and techniques through trial and error in life and in Second Life.
Pre Game Level -3:
In this instance, the instructor provides for feedback by giving multiple choice questions with varying student responses. The instructor might also poll to answer questions. This style increases the level of engagement but student responses are still somewhat directed. This method is more effective with maturer students who can continue to stay focused once the instructor moves on.
Game Level - 4:
In this scenario, the students are engaged in a single solution lab activity or process. The instructor becomes a coach and and student perform short mini games or tasks. These simulations require competency, successful understanding, use of systems but, require a minimal amount of creativity. This is a typical lab type assignment. The instructor sets up the task and the students perform it.
Game Level - 5:
Students in this level are involved in and open-ended activity. They are allowed to express their creativity. Solutions will be predictable After a few times presenting the lesson, most outcomes will become predictable. This level includes tycoon, strategy, and most complex games and simulations. I have found that a lot of our Second Life assignments, thus far, have fallen in this category.
Game Level - 6:
This level consists of long-term open ended activities. This could include executing a plan, creating a project, or writing a story. Results will be unpredictable. The instructor serves as a facilitator, spectator, or resource. This level uses a lot of creativity and self discovery but may be hard to achieve specific goals.
Game Level - 7+:
These levels consist of the students playing a role in the development of the assignment, its criteria, and its evaluation. Students work with the instructor in most or all aspects in planning, execution, and evaluation. This would take a certain level of maturity, skill, creativity, and experience from the student.
Favorite Script from Project 4:
This is tough to decide since I had problems with the Object Giver script. That would have been my choice but it can be a fickle thing. So I will go with the Texture Changing script. I think there are a lot of potential possibilities with this script in SL. It can be used in conjunction with clear textures to make things disappear.
The Course So Far:
I am having a lot of fun and learning a great deal in the class thus far. I love the challenge. I think that creating in SL really utilizes my creative side that has not been flexed in quite a while, at least to this extent. I feel like I have to great something vibrant and unique each time. I know that is not required for class but pressure I put on myself. I am glad that I have started using Sim on a Stick to give me additional avenues for my creative juices. I guess my greatest struggle has been with scripts and permissions. They can be quite frustrating.
Recent Readings/Viewings of Interest:
I have been reading articles about the use of presentation software in education for my CED 507 course. I have also been researching the pros and cons of year round school. I will be serving on a committee that will be looking in on this for our school district. It is an issue that our superintendent keeps bringing up. Most of our union is opposed to this change but are willing to explore it. For leisure reading, I have been slowly working on Area 51: The Uncensored History of America's Top Secret Military Base. It has been very interesting. It gives some new and unique theories and perspectives on Roswell, spyplanes, and nuclear testing. I also made it out of the house to see Star Wars: Episode I in 3D.
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