Unfortunately, my gameplay this week did not have much to do with the readings. The readings were about how technology should be implemented into schools to help stimulate students' learning experiences. In the last time I played, my character took an aptitude test called the G.O.A.T. - or Generalized Occupational Aptitude Test - which featured questions like "You are approached by a frenzied vault scientist, who yells, "I'm going to put my quantum harmonizer in your photonic resonation chamber!" What's your response?" This seems to be going in the opposite direction of the way schools are actually heading. However, one can assume that the apocalypse made humans more primitive, employing standardized tests as the only qualifier for future employment.
The most interesting part of my trip is how my walks around the apocalyptic wasteland was accompanied by 40's big band Jazz, making my proceedings even more ominous and creepy. I can't wait to delve even deeper into the game next week.
Nice post Dan.
ReplyDeleteInteresting comment about the GOAT test... I would actually disagree and say that the designers of the game probably modeled that test over our current achievement test style and schools don't seem to be changing those practices any time soon. What Collins and Halverson argue is that people are learning in places & situations OUTSIDE of school (e.g., web communities, workplace learning, etc.). So, this "futuristic" test is still representing the mass-oriented approaches.
What do you think this test would have looked like if it was more customized and personal? Maybe an open answer? More problem-solving based? What skills is the game teaching YOU so far and how would you test students for those skills in a school-based environment, outside of the video game?
I like your observations about the bomb worship & music accompaniment. Looking forward to your next post!