Simulation SoftwareSimulation Software

Carol Wilson-DuffyPT3 Grant Program

June/2000

Simulation SoftwareSimulation Software

• Decisions/Decisions/Choices Choices (7 Time Award Winner )– 15 different titles– The Environment– Building a Nation

• can be done many ways• whole class• groups of 4

New FeaturesNew Features

• Built in writing module• sound• enhanced graphics• expanded teacher management

features• handy dandy help menus• additional Internet activities

What can it do?What can it do?

• Main focus is to help students develop Critical Thinking Skills– analyze a situation– determine their goals– consider opinions– make decisions– examine consequences

The EnvironmentThe Environment

• Topics Covered– Pollution, Economics & the Environment,

Land Use, Local & Global Environments (mix of Science and Social Studies)

• The information is very structured. So students can easily see conflicting points of view.

Example of a SituationExample of a Situation

• You are the Mayor of Alpine– groups of 4– each is an advisor to the Mayor

• scientist• campaign manager• environmentalist• economist

How do to begin...How do to begin...

• First Problem:The town pond has been polluted and it’s closed down by the Mayor.– Each advisor has information in their booklet

• They read their information and give their opinion on what the Mayor should do

• After all 4 advisors speak, they have to make a group decision on what plan of action to take.

• Students have to think carefully about how their actions will affect their community, their neighbors, and the world.

Many ProblemsMany Problems

• There are many problems, with many solutions– Students could role-play over and over and

get different scenarios

• Students also as a group have to decide their overall goals as Mayor and at the end of the program…they get a grade as to how well they accomplished their goal.

Real learningReal learning

• Opportunities to evaluate their own success

• Because the program has so many twists and turns, students get lots of chances to see the outcomes of different decisions.

InternetInternet

• Every month• Video (download first, then watch)• Download handouts for students• Students role-play• Write their opinions and post to the web• Resources for other links on that topic

– gun control– cloning