About
The ENGAGE project combines game-based and classroom-based computational modeling activities that integrate a computer science curriculum with a science curriculum. The ENGAGE curricular strategy is driven by the K-12 Computer Science Framework and the Next Generation Science Standards to focus on the core disciplinary content appropriate for middle grades and science and engineering practices that support computationally rich science activities.
Game-based learning activities. The ENGAGE game-based learning environment for middle grade students is designed to promote computational thinking as well as broadening interest in computer science. In the game, students play the role of a protagonist who is sent to rescue an underwater research facility whose computing devices have been commandeered by a nefarious researcher. Students navigate through a series of interconnected rooms, which present students with sets of progressively scaffolded computational challenges they must solve. For example, at first students are tasked with operating devices from programs already written for them to use and then progress to programming the devices by themselves using a block-based programming language. A cast of non-player characters help progress the narrative and offer clues to assist students in solving the computational challenges. The game consists of three thematic levels, Algorithms, Variables, and Controls, which were designed to facilitate computer science and computational thinking practices via a broad range of programming activities requiring abstraction and algorithmic thinking. The levels were iteratively refined and developed through a series of curriculum design activities with middle school teachers and students building on the K-12 Computer Science Framework.
Computational Modeling activities. The computational modeling activities support and extend the Computer Science principles covered within the game, as students are encouraged to think computationally about solving real-world scientific problems. These activities expose students to various life sciences content topics such as ecosystems, genetics, structures and functions of living organisms, and matter and energy within these systems. Students’ engagement in these topics will be immersed within a motivating and computer-supported collaborative learning environment that models key workplace skills. The activities will allow students to learn how to use technologies to analyze, interpret, and represent simulated data and develop models that facilitate problem solving.
The project’s research centers on investigating the effectiveness of the ENGAGE game-based learning framework for students learning about computer science, as well as its impact on their interest and self-efficacy with computing, particularly for student groups who are underrepresented in these fields. ENGAGE has been piloted at middle schools in North Carolina and Florida. The project team works with students and teachers to develop a fun and engaging game narrative, an immersive problem-solving environment within the game, and classroom activities that allow students to explore computer science principles in the context of life sciences.
Teacher and Student Feedback about ENGAGE:
“This has been one of the most incredibly rich experiences that our students have been involved with”
"As a teacher, I was happy to be part of developing the story line and curriculum. I could actively see [it] keeping my students ENGAGEd”
“I enjoyed working with my partner because he helped me when I was trying to figure the game out.”
“It was very fun to have advice and someone to help during challenges.”
“I think my partner … did well, because she was determined, and confident. I also thought that computer science and programming would help.”