Ecology of the Earth
J
J014
Résumé, summary
The students learned about the ecological issues using a computer simulation game called "Balance of the Planet." First, the teacher showed some video tapes about ecological issues in foreign countries. Then the teacher explained the use of the computer game briefly. The students learned the functions of the game easily; therefore, the teacher did not teach the students the functions in detail. The students solved several ecological problems during the game activity. These problems were related not only to natural science but also to social science. The students learned scientific issues, social issues, and political issues in order to complete the game.
The students could develop their individual opinions about several ecological issues. After finishing the game activity, the students discussed their opinions with their peers in the classroom.
Discipline, subject :
sciences humaines
Humanistik
social sciences/humanities
scienze humane
humanities
social sciences
sciences sociales
Public :
cycle d'orientation
Sek I, BWK
lower high school
ciclo d'orientamento
Contacts :
Mitsuhashi, Akihiko
Japan Association for Promotion
of Educational Technology, 6-35-1 Kagurazaka, Shinjyuku-ku
J-162
TOKYO(JAPAN)
Tel : 03-3269-5231
Mail :
Fax : 03-3269-5232
Pédagogie, pedagogy :
The students may have difficulties in understanding the ecological issues even if they receive lectures about them. The students may also have difficulties in discussing these issues if they cannot use references appropriately. The computer simulation game helps the students to develop their understanding of ecological issues.
Apprentissage, learning :
The students use their problem-solving skills during the simulation game activity. They learn scientific issues, social issues, and political issues in order to complete the game. Since the students enthusiastically try to play, they can easily learn many issues.
Enseignement, teaching :
The teacher needs to motivate the students to think about the ecological issues. It is very effective for the students to watch some video tapes which deal with ecological issues. The teacher is also one of the learners in the classroom. The teacher and the students can work for the activity cooperatively.
Technique :
We used a simulation game called "Balance of the Planet" on PC type computers. The teacher did not need to teach functions of the software. The students can find several functions by themselves during the game activity.
Société, society :
The students study not only natural science but also social science in order to deal with ecological issues.
Culture :
The students learn several ecological issues in different countries.
Institution :
We used the computer lab for the activity. The teacher was readily available for the students' questions, and showed some examples of the strategy of the game if the students had some problems.
Logistique :
Remarques, remarks :
The students can develop their individual views about ecological issues during the activity. This simulation game can also be used as a data-base about ecological issues.