EdGamer: Recent Episodes
Zack Gilbert
Jamie Brooker is Co-founder & Chief Creative Officer at Kahoot!, one of the world’s fastest growing learning brands. Used by millions each day in over 180 countries, Kahoot!’s free game-based platform makes it easy to create, play and share fun learning games for any subject, in any language, on any device, for all ages! On a mission to make learning something everyone wants to connect with, Jamie leads Kahoot!’s product team in creating meaningful experiences which capture the hearts and minds of learners and educators around the world. … Read the rest
EdGamer is back, on a new site, and hosted IlliniCloud! We have a ton to share, but will hold most of this news back so we can talk with our three guests from Playful Learning and GLS. Our guests are Remi Holden, Beth King, and Conor O’Malley. They will share why this conference is the best Games and Learning conference in the world! Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host:Zack Gilbert
Show Guest: Beth King
Show Guest: Remi Holden
Show Guest: Conor O’Malley
ShowContributor/Producer: Gerry James
Show Links Current News
The new website – https://edgamer.net///… Read the rest
Dr. Seann Dikkers is an assistant professor in the Educational Technology division of the Patton College of Education at Ohio University. Formerly Dr. Dikkers served fourteen years as a middle school teacher, high school principal, and education consultant. Now he researches, writes, and shares the usefulness of digital media for teaching and learning as the founder and director of Gaming Matter. His newly released book TeacherCraft: How Teachers Learn to Use Minecraft in their Classroom will be an essential guide to educators who want to integrate Minecraft.… Read the rest
The current education policies and expectations are overwhelming teachers. Innovative instruction, including Games and Learning, could be left behind. Gerry and Zack will discuss this topic and the current educational games news on this week’s EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer: Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- zack@edgamer.net
EdGamer artwork by Tricia Fuglestad
… Read the rest
“Gamify Your Classroom: A Field Guide to Game-Based Learning” by Matthew Farber is now available. It is a practical textbook about how to implement game-based learning and gamification techniques to everyday teaching. It is a survey of best practices aggregated from interviews with experts-in-the-field. Each chapter concludes with practical lesson plan ideas, games to play (both digital and tabletop), and links to research further. The book also draws on Matt’s experiences implementing games with my middle school students.… Read the rest
In EdGamer 148 we are joined by Bob De Schutter (MA, PhD). Bob is a C. Michael Armstrong Professor at the College of Education, Health & Society and the Armstrong Institute for Interactive Media Studies of Miami University (Oxford, OH). His interdisciplinary research and teaching interests include game design, the older audience of digital games, and the use of digital games for non-entertainment purposes. Bob has also created his own software to study the effectiveness of the gameful classrooms.… Read the rest
In EdGamer 147 we are joined by two amazing educators, Katya Hott and Kathy Yu Burek. Katya is a User Testing Lead, Project Manager at BrainPOP. Kathy manages and designs key aspects of Classroom, Inc.’s learning games and programs to provide engaging learning experiences. They are going to share their expertise of going from the classroom to the edtech/edgame industry. They believe that teachers are an integral part of edtech development. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
Barry Joseph is the Associate Director For Digital Learning, Youth Initiatives, at the American Museum of Natural History. Located within the Education Department, Youth Initiatives, Barry brings a dozen years working in youth development and nearly twenty years working in new media to support the AMNH to advance its mission. And what is the Museum’s mission? “To discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education, and exhibition.”… Read the rest
Kristin Brynteson is the Assistant Director of the P-20 Center at Northern Illinois University. The Center for P-20 Engagement collaborates with internal and external partners to provide leadership and promote innovation by fostering interdisciplinary learning communities and initiatives which increase educational success. One of their projects is STEM Read, Coordinated by Gillian King-Cargile. Gillian King-Cargile has a bachelor’s degree in film production and an MFA in creative writing. She is a writer, a book lover, and a professional science appreciator.… Read the rest
Dan Magaha, Director of Operations at GameSalad, is joining us for EdGamer 144. GameSalad’s Creator platform allows game developers to rapidly design, publish, and distribute sophisticated games for iOS, Android, and HTML5, while eliminating the need to code. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host:Zack Gilbert
Show Guest: Dan Magaha
Show Guest/Producer: Steve Isaacs
ShowContributor/Producer: Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- zack@edgamer.net… Read the rest
Community Manager of Pursuitery, Evan Jones, will join us for EdGamer 143. Pursuitery is building a friendly and supportive online space for people to connect with others who share their interests and want to level up their expertise together. It’s a place where people can hang out, mess around, and geek out. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host:Zack Gilbert
ShowGuest: Evan Jones
ShowContributor/Producer: Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- zack@edgamer.net… Read the rest
Kelly East and Adam Hott, from HudsonAlpha, will join us to discuss the use of data within games to help developers and drive classroom instruction. HudsonAlpha’s free online educational activity, Touching Triton, provides an opportunity for teachers and students to have an engaging conversation about the complex nature of common disease in one class period. This Web-based activity builds understanding of common complex disease risk, influenced by factors from family history, environment and genomic data.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 141 we discuss the influence of Robin Williams. Gerry and Zack will look at how this amazing person made an impact on them as educators. We will look at Robin’s personal life and also the impact some of his movies had in the field of education. We will even discuss the connections to the Games and Learning field. Tune-in and level-up….nanoo nanoo!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 140 we are joined by a very special guest, Lindsey Tropf, founder/CEO of Immersed Games. Lindsey is currently working on Tyto Online, an educational MMORPG. Join us as we chat about her Kickstarter and this intriguing new game. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Guest: Lindsey Tropf
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- zack@edgamer.net… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 139 we were joined by Remi Holden, Rex Beaber, and Caro Williams (from GLS10) to discuss all the amazing events that took place this past June in Madison, Wisconsin. The GLS Conference, held annually in Madison, provides a forum for games researchers, game designers, and educators from around the world to share results from research and game design efforts. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 138 we are joined by Remi Holden and Rex Beaber, Co-Chairs for Playful Learning at GLS10. They will discuss all the activities for this year’s GLS10 Conference in Madison, Wisconsin. The GLS Conference, held annually in Madison, provides a forum for games researchers, game designers, and educators from around the world to share results from research and game design efforts. This year’s conference is June 11-13, 2014, and pre-conference activities centered around Playful Learning will be held on June 10th.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 137 we are joined by Lucien Vattel and Matt Clausen They are sharing some big news out of their company GameDesk. Lucien is the CEO and Matt is the Chief Creative Officer. Matt is the project lead on Marvel ‘s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N., which is interactive education exhibit. Gerry and Zack discuss this project and many other projects that are happening at GameDesk. If you are into Games and Learning then you need to know about this innovative company.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 136 we are joined by John Keilman a reporter with the Chicago Tribune. John wrote a piece on Minecraft in our schools and this article appeared on the front page. It is nice to see a positive education article get some spotlight! He interviewed many important people (including Zack) about Minecraft’s use and potential. Join us for another insightful episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
John’s Minecraft article from the Chicago Tribune
Chicago Tribune – Video game ‘Minecraft’ finds a home in schools (registered account needed)
Article from Newsela
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 135 we are joined by Steve Isaacs the brains behind EdTechBridge. Listen in as Steve walks us through some of the concepts of his gaming and learning community. Also, his blurby puts Zack’s blurby to shame…tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Guest: Steve Isaacs
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- zack@edgamer.net… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 134, Gerry is missing, but we have added Kate Reilly from E-Line Media and Historia. Kate is sharing information on the beta for Historia and what this interactive simulation can do for you in your classroom. We also discuss a great article on Minecraft integration and a new Kickstarter for creating digital story games. There is so much to learn in this episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 133 we celebrate International Tabletop Day! Join us as we take a look at events happening all over the globe in honor of this game based holiday. We also take a look at the new Amazon Fire TV and its gaming possibilities. As always, we bring you all the latest news and notes from the gaming and learning world. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 131.132 we catch up on a lot of Games and Learning news. If you are looking for EdGamer 131 it is out there, but according to Zack it will be referred to as a lost episode. In EdGamer 131.132 we discuss Zack’s visit to SXSWedu and a selfie with Nolan Bushnell who is working on a project called BrainRush. We also discuss Facebook’s purchase of Oculus Rift, a local Maker school, a Camelot Kickstarter, and a lot of Minecraft news.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 130, Gerry and Zack are interviewed by the Gamifi-ED gang of Verena Roberts and Colin Osterhout. Our new FOE’s (friends of EdGamer) are creating amazing resources through their website Gamifi-ED. Vicki Davis couldn’t join us but Lee Graham, who was fighting a cold and didn’t want to be on-air, jumped into the conversation during the topic of Common Core. It seems that Lee has some problems with the Common Core initiative.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 129 we celebrate our 3 year manniversasy! Relive all the good times from our past as we go through our favorite shows and guests. We have 128 shows and we have learned so much from our work, our guests, and our FOE’s (friends of EdGamer). Tune-in and level-up!
Full list of Show Notes for EdGamer.
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 128 we have some catching up to do! After calling in sick last week, we come right back at you with a plethora of gaming and learning news. From game packs for under 10 bucks to conferences for kids run by kids. This week’s EdGamer has everything you need to satisfy your edugaming needs. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
EdGamer 127 brings you the latest in gaming and education news featuring discussion about the Oculus Rift, Chromebooks in the classroom, MinecraftEdu, science games, and Apple TV as a gaming device. Plus, an entire hour of our witty banter…for that we apologize. We also have an update on Zack’s student Eric and his battle with leukemia. A dodgeball tournament will be played to support Eric and his family. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
Zack joined a friend from across the pond and near the North Pole. Niilo Alhovaara is the host of ‘Be Smart on Air.’ Niilo resides in the northern part of Sweden, but he is in the center of educational technology in Europe. There were four other guests for this Hangout about educational acronyms and their meanings. The guests were Kim Nilsson (Sweden), Tiina Sarisalmi (Finland), Kurt Schlegel (Germany), and Marilina Lanigro (Italy). Please join us for an insightful look at education in Europe. … Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 126 we bring back one of our favorite features of the show: new guests! Vicki Davis, Lee Graham and Colin Osterhout of the thriving new gaming and learning initiative Gamifi-ED. (We will be bringing Verena Roberts of Gamifi-ED on EdGamer in the near future) Listen in as we pick their brains about their wiki, personal views on education and some of their favorite games. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
Its time to wrap up the holiday season with EdGamer 125. Put away the decorations and get out the games! This week on EdGamer we let you in on some great post holiday specials that are available in the world of video games. We also go on a long, exhaustive rant about education in general…who saw that one coming? Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 124 we gift wrap a holiday themed show for you with some serious but important news. We also check in with longtime friend (FOE) John Carpenter (via an article written about him…) and run through his favorite games of 2013. You will have to listen in for the rest of the show as Zack tells us about a tragic situation and a resulting great cause for fundraising efforts. Put on your holiday bells and join us for another great EdGamer show.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 123 its holiday madness! We started with a schedule for the show but had a tough time keeping ourselves on task…you can tell break has started. Join us for some game club chat as well as news from Amazon and BigHistoryProject.com. Ho, ho, hold up, you don’t want to miss this episode. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 122, we meet up with Dr. Seann Dikkers is an assistant professor in the Educational Technology division of the Patton College of Education at Ohio University. Formerly Dr. Dikkers served fourteen years as a middle school teacher, high school principal, and education consultant. Now he researches, writes, and shares the usefulness of digital media for teaching and learning as the founder and director of Gaming Matter. His books, Real-Time Research,Mobile Media Learning, and the forthcoming TeacherCraft: Using Minecraft in the Classroom are helping teachers integrate innovative technology into classroom learning. … Read the rest
The title says it all! This week on EdGamer 121 we discuss the Playful Learning Summit in Whitewater, SimCity is trying to get into the classroom, Mathbreakers looks like a promising math game, and a little side of pension theft just for holiday spirit! Its another can’t miss episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 120 we have two fantastic guests from the new gaming initiative ‘Historia.’ New FOEs Jason Darnell and Rick Brennan to tell us how ‘Historia’ harnesses the power of history and games to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. You are going to want this in your classroom! But don’t take our word for it, tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Show Guest: Rick Brennan
Show Guest: Jason Darnell
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 119 we give you a quick run through on all the latest gaming and learning news across many platforms. A sweet new Lego release, multi-platform gaming coming from Microsoft, and De-Mystifying Minecraft for educators. It’s another can’t miss episode from the bearded gaming guys. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 118 instead of looking at the history of gaming, we take a look at how gaming can help teach history! We give you a plethora of resources for you to use in your classroom to help kids understand the workings of our past. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 117 we are joined by one of our favorite F.O.E.’s (Friend of EdGamer) Lucas Gillispie. Our discussion revolves around classroom setup and the technology we would like to have now and in the future. Lucas has experience with changing classroom environments and this led to a great conversation. Do you want some great ideas on how to overhaul your room? This episode of EdGamer will get you started. Tune-in and level-up!… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 116 we are joined by the dynamic duo behind the ‘For Youth Inquiry,’ Jacob Watson and Nikki Zaleski. They help us sort through a myriad of news about education and gaming including iOS board games, the BotLogic Kickstarter and the UWW Playful Learning Summit. The main event has us talking with Nikki and Jacob about the ‘For Youth Inquiry’ and their mission to “engage youth in safe, accessible conversations about sexual health and sexual violence through participatory theater” (and games!).… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 115 we get caught up on all the info we missed getting out to you last week, including Zack’s beard turning grey (or gray)! We have two books to share, an infographic on gamers, a Minecraft contest, a Thunderclap for BotlLogic, and a blog post criticizing Sir Ken Robinson. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 114 we ‘roll’ back into the world of board games! From digital versions to updates of some classics, we fill you in on all the latest news. Plus we react to an announcement from Valve concerning a new gaming platform. This is another great episode of EdGamer, don’t let it pass you by. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
Join us for EdGamer 113 as we welcome new FOE’s (Friends of EdGamer) to the show. Laila Shabir and Ish Syed are the creators of the Kickstarter “PENGUEMIC-Word Domination.” Join us to get the inside scoop on this great new game and how it can be used in the classroom! Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Show Guest: Laila Shabir
Show Guest: Ish Syed
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 112 Zack and Gerry are stuck together…alone! Our guest for this show, “A Gamer’s Education’s” Craig Girard sent us a list of great questions to ponder. Listen in as EdGamer attempts to define itself and give a ‘state of the field address’ on games and learning. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 111 we chat with one of our favorite FOEs (Friend of EdGamer) Ben Rimes! Join us for captivating talk on gaming and learning as well as topics such as Diablo 3, Minecraft, and Firefly. Plus, you can’t miss some important breaking news from the…Normal Cornbelters? What has Zack gotten us into now? Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 110 we hang out with two new guests: Rob Steller and Josiah Hills! The guys walk us through their Kickstarter campaign for their upcoming educational platform ClassXP. We discuss the implications this program can have for teachers and assessment as well as how it differs from the gamification trends in the field. Don’t miss this episode. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 109 we have two guests, Heather Robertson and Wade Berger. Heather is a recent guest and Wade is a first timer to EdGamer from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and GLS. Our topic is the direction and future of Games and Learning. Our discussion includes mobile platforms, investment, creation, and tools to help teachers implement games in their classroom. It is a can’t miss show with great guests and content. Tune-in and level-up!… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 108 we are thrilled to have one of our favorite F.O.E.s (Friend of EdGamer): Lucas Gillispie. We ‘look’ ahead to the future of 3D gaming with a preview of Oculus Rift. Lucas helps us speculate on the possibility of using a technology like this in the classroom. Finally, we take a trip through the world of learning and gaming to touch on a myriad of subjects from games for the blind to Xbox self-publishing to Schoology badges.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 107 we chat with F.O.E (Friend Of EdGamer) Heather Robertson about her latest projects involving the integration of technology in bilingual language classes. Heather also shares with us some of her favorite games as well as some great insight into the future of education. Don’t miss this episode! Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor/Producer:Gerry James
Show Guest: Heather Robertson
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 106 we take off the training wheels and use Google Hangouts On Air without any assistance. Scary…but not as scary as the return of Death in Sakkara. This is the great 1920’s Egyptian murder mystery game created by Preloaded. This was one of Zack’s favorite classroom games that was removed by the BBC because of website upgrades. It is back from the dead! We also discuss Playful Learning, Valve’s new education tool for game creation, and Google came out with some magical device called the Chromecast.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 105 we dig back into the violence in video games debate. Can violent video games be a therapeutic release for some children? We take a look at a parallel endeavor by some military veterans using MMA (mixed martial arts) to release tension. Plus, we have the latest news on the Civilization series and some other great tidbits along the way. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
Even though EdGamer couldn’t make it to ISTE 2013, we could connect with BrainPOP, a major player in Games and Learning. Annie Choi and Scott Price had some BrainPOP news to share and they gave us some insight to the great content for students and amazing tools for educators. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s our Show Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Guest: Annie Choi
Show Guest:Scott Price
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
We’re back from the Games & Learning Society Conference and we have a ton to share! In EdGamer 103 we take you through all the highlights of the conference from great sessions to keynote addresses. We take this chance to look back at the great time we spent with old friends and look forward to the great conversations we are going to have with new friends. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 102 we bring you an enlightening chat with Lucien Vattel, the Executive Director of GameDesk.org. Join us as we talk with Lucien about GameDesk’s mission to revolutionize the way we teach and learn through gaming. Lucien describes for us how GameDesk is going about creating a ‘next generation’ model of education. This is a can’t miss episode. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This is EdGamer 101 and class is in session! Our guest today is one of our favorite returning guests, Dr. James Paul Gee. Join us as we discuss his new book and other tidbits from the world of gaming and learning. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s ourShow Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor: Gerry James
Show Guest: Dr. James Paul Gee
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
Celebrate EdGamer’s 100th Episode with our Special Guest, Atari Co-founder, gaming pioneer, and edtech entrepreneur, Nolan Bushnell. We’ll discuss Nolan’s new book, as well as his exciting new ed company, Brainrush.com! Tune -in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s ourShow Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Guest: Nolan Bushnell
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us
EdGamer artwork by Tricia Fuglestad
… Read the rest
Maria Cipollone (pronounced: chip-alone) is a born-and-raised Philadelphian who is also a PhD student in Media and Communication at Temple University. She studies how “new” media technologies (e.g. video games, virtual/augmented reality experiences, mobile technologies) shape our thinking, working, and especially learning. In her dissertation, she wants to answer the following questions: what happens to the motivation to play Minecraft when we take Minecraft to school? What psychological factors (for example ‘tele’presence) contribute to motivation to ‘mine’? … Read the rest
He’s back and he’s bringing us World Peace…the board game and the book! EdGamer 98 features the return of one of our favorites guests, John Hunter. Listen in as we discuss John’s new book, World Peace and Other 4th Grade Achievements, and attempt to solve the world’s problems in a half hour. It’s another can’t miss episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 97 we try to decipher the connection between the Girls Scouts of America and Vikings…who could pass that up? Let us enlighten your half hour with knowledge about #EdWin, great history games, and Zack’s old age. It’s an episode you can’t miss. Tune-in and level-up!
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.
Here’s ourShow Notes
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
EdGamer episode 96 covers a lot of ground. This was an eventful week that saw tragedies in Texas, Boston, and major flooding in parts of the Midwest The week ended well with Zack and his game club (games we played- No Thanks! – Cartegena – Botswana) and Rush’s induction (Zack is a big Rush fan!) into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We also discuss a video by Constance Steinkuhler and interest driven learning. … Read the rest
As we creep closer to the century mark, episode 95 of EdGamer takes a deeper look at video games and assessment. This detailed conversation offers critical reviews of our current evaluation techniques of student learning and teacher effectiveness. On a positive note, we look to video games to help remedy this situation! Join us for this important topic and more news and notes from the field of gaming and learning. Tune in and level-up!
Other gaming news – There is a discussion of the rules of golf and what is transpiring at this year’s Masters Golf Tournament.… Read the rest
This week Zack is interviewed in Minecraft Minechat 10. Colin Gallagher and Rob Newberry are the hosts of Minecraft Minechat and they are two teachers that live in Singapore. Colin is an Irishman and Rob is from Toronto. We had a wonderful conversation within a Game Of Thrones build called Westeroscraft. This recording you are hearing has many of the highlights from this interview. Go to the EdGamer page on EdReach to enjoy the full show with video.… Read the rest
Jamie Brooker joins us this week for EdGamer 94. Jamie is Co-Founder & Lead Designer of Kahoot! Crafted using a design-led approach, Kahoot! is a web-based mobile and tablet friendly platform. With a simple user experience, it creates a social, fun and game-like environment in the classroom. Do you want to try this interactive game in your classroom? Use “edgamer” as the priority code for the beta access. EdGamer is in Kahoots with some serious games, so tune-in and level-up!… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer episode 93 we run through some new great resources. Zack posted a Minecraft guide for teachers, we discuss a new interactive tool called Kahoot!, and GeekDad has a wonderful two part article (one and two) on finding new board games. EdGamer is jam packed, so tune-in and level-up!
Alternate Title– Spring Break and Winter Storms
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links.… Read the rest
Pete Figtree of Ruthless Diastema is our guest this week on EdGamer 92. Pete has a great Games and Learning blog and podcast. We have a lot in common, but Pete has focused on a specific gaming genre for his high school English and Language Arts classroom….role-playing games. He loves using non-digital Indie games to assess his students’ learning in literature. Tabletop games, cards, and dice are commonly seen in Pete’s classroom and his students enjoy. … Read the rest
Gerry is calling in from Texas for EdGamer 91. He is attending the NAEA (National Art Education Association) 2013 Conference in Austin. He left the snow of Chicago for the warm weather of the south and he is filling his brain with new ideas about Games and Learning. Zack gives us an update about his game club, we discuss SXSWedu, and Zack has been asked to join the Playful Learning Advisory Board. Don’t miss this great discussion!… Read the rest
This week on episode 90 of EdGamer we review two of the best conferences of the year for technology and education. In the last two weeks EdGamer has attended the ICE and SIT conferences and we have a plethora of new things to share with you! Plus, you get to hear all of the wonderful antics as a result of Zack spending a few days at Gerry’s house. This you can’t miss! Tune-in and level-up!
Alternate Title- The Best Seat on the ICE
Please go to the Show Notes for all of our links and people we met at these two conferences.… Read the rest
EdGamer Edvisor is a compacted but highly focused version of EdGamer that gives the listener a quick list of tools or reviews to aid learning in the classroom. This episode highlights our top 5 (ish) digital creation tools for the classroom. Enjoy!
- The right computer lab – Macs, monitors & Wacom tablets
- Adobe Photoshop/CS Suite & Adobe Lightroom
- Final Cut Pro / iMovie
- 3D Studio Max / Maya / Autodesk Suite / ZBrush / Sculptris / Pixologic / Cheetah 3D
- Unity Game Engine
- Sound editing software – GarageBand / Avid’s Pro Tools
- Journaling program – Corel / Pento / Evernote
- Hosting program – JIBE / web design
Your thoughts?… Read the rest
This week on the 89th installment of EdGamer, we try to figure out why Bill Gates “confuzzles” us (Zack is extremely proud of his new word…). The discussion quickly turns to frustration as we banter about topics such as standardized testing, individuality in students and common standards. We end the show with some lighter gaming news about some great new products. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
EdGamer Edvisor is a compacted but highly focused version of EdGamer that gives the listener a quick list of tools or reviews to aid learning in the classroom. This episode highlights our top 5 Social Studies games for the classroom. Enjoy!
Top 5 Social Studies Games
Civilization IV
BBC Interactive History Games
Minecraft and MinecraftEdu
iCivics – Filament Games – BrainPOP – Learning Games Network
Muzzy Lane Software
There are many others, but here are the ones I use? … Read the rest
This short and powerful episode of EdGamer, our 88th installation of the series, brings to light some new games we experienced in game club this week. If our sporadic title isn’t enough to interest you, check out another great preview of the SIT Conference in this podcast. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor: Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us
EdGamer artwork by Tricia Fuglestad
… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 87 we are joined by the president of one of the ‘coolest’ educational gaming companies around…Dave McCool of Muzzy Lane (sorry for the pun Dave). Listen in as Dave gives us a detailed tour of all the amazing stuff Muzzy Lane has going on. From elementary to adult, there is a little something for everyone in this episode. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Guest: Dave McCool
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 86 we are joined by our good friend and repeat special guest Jeremiah McCall of the Learning Games Network! Jeremiah is nice enough to walk us through some of the great stuff happening with the Playful Learning initiative. He also tosses in some amazing insight on the latest topics of gaming and education. Don’t miss this episode. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Guest: Jeremiah McCall
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 85 we creep ever closer to the century mark! Zack gives us a low down on one of the fastest growing student led conferences in Illinois, the SIT conference. This episode is short but robust and full of great information, especially if you have students interested in showing off their Minecraft skills. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This IS the podcast you’re looking for! This week on EdGamer Episode 84 we contemplate the reality of building the Death Star…spoiler alert…our vote is a resounding, YES! We also give you some ‘EdCeptional’ news about games in Special Education settings, follow up on Homeland Security and try to figure out how to pronounce d0x3d, a link from our dear friend Niilo…another don’t miss episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor: Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 83 we start off 2013 by looking back at some of the best games from 2012. We try to determine how, or if, they should be used in the classroom. Plus, we run the gamut of new articles about education and gaming including topics on children s privacy, U.S. History and …Kerbal? Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
For our final scheduled podcast of 2012, Episode 82, we bring in a new friend to the show. Jochen Kranzer is a managing partner at ovos, a small interactive studio in Austria. He walks us through his latest project, an educational physics game called Ludwig. Jochen also joins us for some ongoing talk about violence in media, especially video games and how it impacts our schools and children. Don’t miss the final EdGamer of the year.… Read the rest
Are violent video games the cause of violent crimes, especially in children? Who is to blame and is there a solution in stopping these tragedies within our schools? Join us this week as guests Joel Levin (The Minecraft Teacher), Lucas Gillispie (Edurealms), Gerry, and Zack try to answer these question and many more on this week’s EdGamer. Tune-in and Level-up. (Video is available on this episode’s page. The audio was pulled from the video recording.)… Read the rest
Happy Holidays EdGamer listeners…this week we give you a gift…our very first interview with a Ted Talk speaker…the amazingly insightful John Hunter. Mr. Hunter is the innovative force behind the World Peace Game and he is having a huge impact on the gaming and learning field. Join us for one of our most interesting episodes yet. Don’t miss this EdGamer first…tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Guest:John Hunter
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
On this week’s EdGamer we brought back a former guest, Jeremiah McCall. He is working with the Learning Games Network on a new project called Playful Learning. This is an ambitious project that will help educators find games that will work in their classroom. Playful Learning will also help teachers with the difficult task of implementation. Tune in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Guest: Jeremiah McCall
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This Edvisor brief gives a quick assessment to a great electronic games rubric from California State University. We highlight the strengths of this rubric and offer a few suggestions for improvement. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor: Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us
EdGamer artwork by Tricia Fuglestad
… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 79 we run through all the latest gaming and education news on the net! Our main article finds us discussing a classroom board game where the winner is the one who can create peace on the battlefield. Plus we look at a great video short and a glimpse of a new physics inspired online game. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
Need more tools for your lessons? Would you like to find more games that could assist you and your students? Your best resource could be the other people in the classroom who are younger than you. I am your EdGamer Edvisor…..so tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us
EdGamer artwork by Tricia Fuglestad
… Read the rest
This week on Episode 78 of EdGamer we look ahead to the exciting new world of Google Ingress. Plus we feature some great classroom resources by Zack and a review of the first week of his game club at his school. Don’t ‘resist’ becoming ‘enlightened’…Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor: Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us
EdGamer artwork by Tricia Fuglestad
… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 77 we review and dissect Zack’s new Game Club efforts! We also review some old Bangles songs, more Minecraft, simple maps, and simple games. This is an eclectic but action packed episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
- Start a Gaming Club
-
Parental permission form
- for rides home and permission to be here
- Is there a need?
- Social skills
- Bullying
- A safe place to play
- Academic (yes)
- Planning meeting with core students (Guild Leaders – 8 students)
- Mission statement
- Focus and goals
- Using games to enhance learning
- Have fun, create, and socialize
- What games and platforms?
- for rides home and permission to be here
-
… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 76 we give you the cheat code on how to start a game club at your school! We also stand up for SIT, check out the Wind Map and ramble on about tons of other interesting stuff…or at least we think its interesting. Don’t miss this episode as we slowly creep toward the century mark. Tune-in and level- up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
- Start a Gaming Club
-
Parental permission form
- for rides home and permission to be here
- Is there a need?
- for rides home and permission to be here
-
… Read the rest
This week on the 75th episode of EdGamer we look into the ‘DNA’ of the new strategy-puzzle game Phylo. We also check up on the Magicians Kickstarter we talked about last week…spoiler alert…it’s been doing well…really well! Finally we share a fun link to a list of classic amoral decisions video games force you to make. Don’t miss our diamond sword edition episode…tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on Episode 74 of EdGamer we welcome a new friend to the show…meet Kyle Simons. Kyle walks us through the ‘magic’ behind his Kickstarter effort, a language learning RPG! The concepts behind this effort are just as breathtaking as the visuals involved. Join us for a look at what could be the future of language learning and gaming. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Guest: Kyle Simons
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 73 we cover a myriad of topics! Have no fear, the title does not refer to classroom grading procedures but instead a new Lego The Lord of the Rings game. We also revisit some old friends and Gerry’s gaming club. Check out this week’s show for some ways to support your favorite gaming and education podcast (…yes, EdGamer) on Stitcher and the worst summary of Magic: The Gathering you have ever heard.… Read the rest
This week on the 72nd episode of EdGamer we bring you a brand new friend of the show named James Sanders. James, besides being extremely innovative, is also the founder of the new site ClassBadges. We get an inside sneak peak of the site as well as a glimpse into the future vision of ClassBadges. Don’t miss another packed episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Guest: James Sanders
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week in EdGamer we scale the ‘Bastion!’ We use Episode 71 to take a deep look into the new iPad version of Bastion and its implications for the classroom. Plus we check out the AMD App Zone and a cool new infographic. Don’t miss another action packed episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on our 70th episode of EdGamer we celebrate complete randomness with tons of great info on gaming and education. We bleep out our thoughts on censorship and look forward to a new platform for a personal favorite, Bastion! Zack tells us about his up and coming plans to attend FlatCon and Gerry gets pumped up about his new gaming club at school. This week is a hot mess of awesomely random insights…tune-in and level-up!… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 69 we have a ‘Quandary’ for you…What could be better than a chat with Peter Stidwill, a Producer at the Learning Games Network? Peter is extremely well versed both education and video games, and we are excited to pick his brain for a half hour. He gives us the inside scoop on Quandary and more importantly the most effective ways to implement this game in the classroom. Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Guest: Peter Stidwill
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 68 we talk about heroes…real heroes. We also hunt down some interesting articles about game contests and new game-based schools. Toss in a pinch of new school news, jibe-ing, and some up-and-coming games, and you have another action packed episode of EdGamer. Tune-in and level-up!
Hero teacher tackles gunman at NCHS
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
Luuuuuuuuuke…..we are your followers. This week on EdGamer 67 we welcome back long time friend Lucas Gillispie to chat with us about his new gaming and education initiatives. We dissect SAGA, MOOC and as many other four letter words as we can think of! We are not sure if there is more information or if there are more laughs, but it is another can’t-miss episode of EdGamer.Tune-in and level-up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Guest: Lucas Gillispie
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
Holy Gen Con its EdGamer 66! On this week’s episode we walk you through our visit to this year’s Gen Con board gaming convention in Indianapolis. We break down several new games and talk about all of the fascinating people and presentations we observed. Don’t miss our review of the ‘best four days in gaming!’
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week Gerry and I went to Gen Con!
Gen Con Indy is the original, longest running, best attended, gaming convention in the world. For over 44 years, Gen Con Indy has been setting the trend and breaking records. Last year, more than 120,103 turnstile and 36,106 unique attendees experienced Gen Con Indy. Gen Con is the best four days of gaming!
Gen Con’s focus is on board games, role playing games, miniatures, simulations, and card games. … Read the rest
Welcome (back) to the Dojo! This week on EdGamer 64 we give you the second part of our amazing interview with Liam and Sam. We hear about some of their favorite games and Liam’s intense history with gaming and education. Check out this compact but powerful week of EdGamer!
“ClassDojo is a classroom tool that helps teachers improve behavior in their classrooms quickly and easily. It also captures and generates data on behavior that teachers can share with parents and administrators.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer we…enter the Dojo! Episode 63 introduces you to the two geniuses behind ClassDojo! This episode features a look into the creative brains of Sam and Liam, the creators of ClassDojo and walks you through all the basics you will need to get set up. If you are looking for an amazing new tool for the classroom this year, you have to catch this episode of EdGamer!
“ClassDojo is a classroom tool that helps teachers improve behavior in their classrooms quickly and easily.… Read the rest
On this delicious episode of EdGamer we teach you how to make chocolate-covered broccoli…or maybe we don’t. EdGamer 62 finds us searching the vast terrain of gaming and education news for topics such as gaming and learning myths, Oregon Trial, PCs vs. consoles wars and news and notes of future releases. Don’t miss an appetizing, if not at least entertaining, episode of EdGamer!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 61…Paging Dr. McCall…Dr. Jeremiah McCall! We are joined by the mastermind behind the Gaming the Past website (and book) for some conversation on how video games can be used in the history classroom. Jeremiah takes us through a myriad of examples of games, lessons and resources. This is a can’t miss episode for anyone looking to incorporate simulation or games in the classroom…check it out!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Guest: Dr.… Read the rest
EdGamer 60 is packed with more summer gaming news! We look forward to another exciting education and gaming conference as well as a ‘Steam-y’ summer sale. We also preview a new tablet and look at some sights that bring some new light to the classroom. Watch out for way too many French references on a Bastille themed EdGamer!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
Welcome to the Dojo…We got fun and games! This week on EdGamer 59, we take on a myriad of topics about gaming and learning. From new Civilization updates, to a gaming book club, and to some new innovative programs. This episode is packed with info on the latest current events. Don’t miss this episode…listen up to level up!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
EdGamer 58 is back with another great guest! This week we welcome Crystle Martin from UW-Madison and the GLS Conference. Crystle joins us to chat about her recent dissertation defense and all of her exciting future plans! This is another can’t miss episode of EdGamer on the EdReach network. Tune-in!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor: Gerry James
Guest: Crystle Martin
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us
EdGamer artwork by Tricia Fuglestad
… Read the rest
Episode 57 of EdGamer has us checking in with our first guest from the recent GLS conference: Jeff Holmes from ASU and the Center for Games and Impact. We discuss a plethora of topics with Jeff including the new Surface tablet from Microsoft, the Teach with Portals platform from Valve and everything new and interesting from Jeff’s work and studies. Check out EdGamer 57 for reviews, previews and great conversations with a new friend of EdGamer: Jeff Holmes.… Read the rest
We’re packing up EdGamer and taking it on the road this week as we visit and review the Games+Learning+Society Conference in Madison, Wisconsin. Join us for an interesting discussion on the current state of gaming and education. There was enough information, food, and fantastic people to fill a lengthy podcast, but we managed to select a few highlights! If you are an EdGamer fan you cannot afford to miss this review of the most important conference to our genre.… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 55 we try to figure out the motivation behind an…uh…interesting article by a few psychologists. Then in happier thoughts we check out a great article about Ken Burns and manipulation. Finally we look ahead some exciting new game releases. Tune in to the latest EdGamer episode and find out Zack’s deepest, darkest secret (spoiler alert: he cried at the end of Harry Potter).
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
It’s summer time on EdGamer this week…well at least for some of us. In episode 54 we figure out what steps teachers would need to take this summer to get ready to use games in the classroom next year. We include some valuable links to resources and also look ahead to some great summer conferences you should consider attending! Watch out, it’s another don’t miss episode of EdGamer…summer style!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer we take a look at a great resource a new friend from Down Under passed along to us. After a quick review of the latest happenings we focus on a handout that clearly outlines Blooms Taxonomy for video game usage, learning and design. This week’s show is brief but doesn’t lack any punch. Don’t miss your chance to hears tons of bad Australian accent attempts by Zack…only on EdGamer 53!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show Contributor:Gerry James
Here’s our Show Notes
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
In the 52nd episode of EdGamer, we find ourselves battling the toughest question we have faced: “What is an educational game?” To help us sort out our thoughts on this we contacted a higher power and great friend…no, not Yoda (well, sort of), Lucas Gillispie! Lucas returns to EdGamer to talk about some great new game releases and gives us his professional opinion on what constitutes educational gaming/learning. You do not want to miss his valuable insight…join us for another huge edition of EdGamer!… Read the rest
We’re over the hill and headed back to the mines on episode 51 of EdGamer. It has been a year since we last spoke to Joel Levin (AKA Minecraft Teacher) and what a year he has had! On this episode we review all the fascinating things Joel has done with Minecraft in the classroom and talk about some of the amazing people he has worked with along the way. We continue our trend of revisiting with some of our early guests in this week’s can’t-miss EdGamer.… Read the rest
Last week was Zack’s birthday and this week it’s our birthday…our 50th! That’s right, it’s the 50th episode of EdGamer. We take a look back at all the great shows we have had and highlight a few of our favorite memories. If you are new to EdGamer check this out for some recommendations on can’t-miss past episodes. We are proud of our first 50 and we can’t wait to bring you 50 more…thanks to all for tuning in!… Read the rest
“Everything I have ever done is an obsession.” – Dr. James Paul Gee
The ‘Geenius’ is back! Its EdGamer 49 and Zack gets a very special birthday gift…another conversation with Dr. James Paul Gee. There are few words that could sufficiently sum up the the amazing and intense conversation we have with Dr. Gee. His thoughts and insights in the field of gaming and learning are unparalleled. Dr. Gee runs us through his current work, identifies some recent successful examples in the field of gaming, and finally gives us a glimpse into what he considers the future of gaming and learning.… Read the rest
Episode 48 of EdGamer has us return to the lab…Boise State’s 3D Gamelab that is! We welcome back Dr. Chris Haskell and chat about what new advances in the 3D Gamelab have come about since our last chat. Somehow we find time to talk about badges, FOEs (Friends of EdGamer), Minecraft and a couple amazing Boise State studies among all of the awesome insight from Dr. Haskell. You cannot miss this episode of EdGamer, it’s one of the best yet!… Read the rest
Sylvia Martinez, president of Generation YES, is our guest this week and she helps us answer an important question. Is Khan Academy a Monday solution?
“This is the Monday… Someday problem – the fact that even if a teacher changes everything in their classroom, nothing else in the system will change. How can one argue for a long term (Someday) overhaul of math curriculum, pedagogy and assessment when you know even if it does change, it’s going to be long time from now, and you have kids coming in on Monday who need to pass a test on Friday that will depend on them memorizing a bunch of facts and skills?… Read the rest
Watch out for EdGamer 46…this week we’re ‘Roland in the deep’ (sorry Roland) with returning guest Roland Aichele from West Sacramento Prep in California. Roland fills us in on the latest trends of the west coast including some low tech gaming madness. We also talk about Dan Pink one of the most interesting authors in the business world that is frequently being referenced in educational circles and how his latest book ‘Drive’ may fit into our gaming and education curriculums.… Read the rest
It’s a packed house on EdGamer 45! This week we welcome back two of our favorite guests: Lucas Gillispie, a gamer, Instructional Technology Coordinator for Pender County Schools and blogger at Edurealms and Justin Roth, a clinical researcher and avid gamer. We only needed two topics to fill the show this week with all this brain power so we chose carefully. First debate the use of Star Wars: The Old Republic and World of Warcraft in the classroom and then we check for an update on the Boise State 3D Game Lab.… Read the rest
On EdGamer this week we take a look ahead by looking back! That’s right, EdGamer44 previews some hot sequels that are due out this summer. We also reveal the results of our first ever EdReach poll question. Finally, on this episode we discuss the latest news involing everyone’s favorite on-line game emporium, Steam. Don’t miss another great episode of EdGamer as we creep towards our 50th episode!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
There are some new devices being released and this week we thought we would take a look at all the major gaming platforms to discuss their effective use in the classroom. All of these devices have positives when it comes to gaming, but not all of them would be a great purchase for their learning value. We would love to hear your comments concerning the wide range of topics we discuss in the week’s EdGamer Podcast.… Read the rest
EdGamer 42 is packed with great info! This week we tackle the complex and controversial issue of ‘Gamification’ in the classroom…fun or fad…we help you decide. Plus, we revisit the Vita and look ahead to another great new game that is due out in the near future. Check it out!
***A clarification of a incorrect statement by Zack- Taoists use Yin-Yang and Buddhist use a wheel called the Dharmachakra. We could go into great detail concerning any connections between impermanence and Yin-Yang, but we shall save that for another time.… Read the rest
EdGamer 41 is all business! We have a jam packed show this week with segments on Sony’s new PS Vita, a Smithsonian exhibit dedicated to video game history and a writing opportunity on video game violence from the ISTE website. We also discuss the fizzling of Facebook gaming as well as some huge new video game releases. This week’s episode is short but powerful…just like Zack…tune in!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us… Read the rest
EdGamer is 40! For the special occasion we dig up some articles about our favorite things…Star Wars, Civilization and and iPads. Zack tells us some exciting news he received about his classroom before we delve into the possibilities of the Kinect(ed) classroom. We also take a look at one of the best commercials either of us have seen in a long time for a game that we are both pumped about. Finally, Zack fills us in on the next step for the Civilization series, including some interesting new added features.… Read the rest
Check out EdGamer 39 for another witty episode of Zack and Gerry running through your favorite gaming and education topics. This week we decipher the cryptic (or just incredibly cool) inner circle of gaming and learning that stretches from MIT to Wisconsin to Arizona. We also track down some of Bill Gates’ money and find out how it is being used to support gaming and education. Finally, we give a brief preview of the conference season coming up.… Read the rest
Level up everybody, EdGamer 38 is here! In this weeks episode we discuss Edmodo, Zack’s new XP point system and his unhealthy obsession with Excel. Later we take a trip to the greatest kingdom ever created called “Gerrytopia” and briefly discuss some new uses for the Khan Academy. Check it out!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor: Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us
… Read the rest
This week’s episode of EdGamer is POPPIN’! Sorry…that was terrible…but the show this week is great! Tune in to EdGamer 37 for an in-depth review/preview of BrainPop and game creator GameSalad. We also give a shoutout to our new friend (and hopefully future guest) Pete and his endeavors with the Games and Learning Dream Tank on G+. Finally we weigh in the topic everyone is talking about: the new Apple textbooks and the impact they may have on gaming and learning.… Read the rest
Gerry was unavailable this week, for legitimate reasons, and I had to search for a guest. I not only found one guest, but I found two! You might know Scott Weidig from the EdReach Show and he is also one of Gerry’s bosses. My other guest is Justin Roth, who is my best friend and a serious gaming guru. We discussed 1:1 and how that can impact gaming, iPads placement within 1:1, and Apple’s announcement for Thursday, January 19th.… Read the rest
WE’RE BACK! EdGamer welcomes you into 2012 with a show chock full of educational gaming information. In this episode we recap the holidays, visit a few new articles and look forward to the possible future of gaming and education. EdGamer 35 will give you everything you need to start your edugaming year off right! Tune in.
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor: Gerry James
Contact us with any questions or comments- edgamer@edreach.us
… Read the rest
Episode 34, of EdGamer, takes us to classrooms of Gerry and Zack. Gerry’s HIVE (Highly Interactive Virtual Environments) project is progressing well and they have created a video to show off their avatars. This class is not only “highly interactive” it is engaging and these students are talented. We also discuss the game creation engine, HeroEngine, that is responsible for the new game Repopulation (which looks fantastic) and the implications it could have for the classroom.… Read the rest
On Episode 33 of EdGamer we take on the daunting task of updating the American educational system. The two amazing articles from this week’s show give great recommendations on what needs to be done. We are determined to fit the two together for one great and most importantly, effective answer. Tune in for some great banter on how we can include games in the future of education.
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
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The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us
… Read the rest
Hey EdGamers, Episode 32 is packed with tons of great new links! Tune-in to hear us discuss an upcoming Canadian documentary on video game creators. Also, we cover the U.S. Government’s opinion on video game usefulness as well as a recent study on violent video games and their impact on the brain. Finally we chat about STEM’s move to STEAM and Zack fills us in on latest Ender’s Game casting news! It’s another great episode of EdGamer you don’t want to miss!… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 31 we have a special guest who will give us some proof that games and learning can be combined to equal some serious fun. Dan Rezac shares his perspective on the introduction of Civilization IV within his middle school. We also discuss a new app for the Field Museum in Chicago and how Zack is addicted to Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
Subscription Page and Feeds for EdGamer
The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us
… Read the rest
Hey EdGamers, its guest time again! In this week’s episode we are rollin’ with Roland…Roland Aichele that is (sorry Roland). Our guest on EdGamer 30 joins us from beautiful West Sacramento, CA and tells us all about his students’ work on the website PixelLicks. Join us to hear all about this site, his students and his thoughts on gaming and learning. Check it out!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
Subscription Page and Feeds for EdGamer
The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki
Contact us with any questions or comments-edgamer@edreach.us
… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 29 we introduce to you…our 6TH LISTENER! Our rapidly expanding audience also gets treated to a show full of links about the many types of gamers and some info on the downfall of Flash, including the implications that might have on gaming. Also included is a hop, skip and a jump down memory lane as we go through a list of the twenty best games of all time. You cannot afford to miss this week’s EdGamer.… Read the rest
We’re back! The 28th installment of EdGamer takes off with a discussion about video games and creativity and then sinks into one of the best and deepest articles we have found about gaming. You do not want to miss this episode as it is jam packed with some useful info, some hilarious info, and some true ‘what am I listening to’ moments! Also, sorry for the downgrade in Zack’s microphone. Listen and find out what happened to his favorite listening/recording device. … Read the rest
This week I was joined by a FOE (Friend of EdGamer) Lucas Gillispie. Lucas filled in for the voiceless Gerry and he updated us on 3D GameLab and other projects on his plate. We also discussed my article concerning the removal of one of my favorite (or favourite if you are British) games from the BBC website, Death in Sakkara. You get all of this and a little more from this week’s EdGamer podcast. Enjoy!… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer 26 we analyze the results of a telling new study. According to the study, 91% of children today are…PLAYING VIDEO GAMES (cue dramatic music)!!! We brace ourselves as we dissect this ridiculously obvious study. Why are children playing video games…um…because they are fun? Duh. Tune in for some more heavy sarcasm as well as some criticism of violence in video games and some support of games and storytelling in the classroom. Another great EdGamer is on the way!… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer we pay our respects to Steve Jobs with gaming flare! Although Apple was well known for its role in educational establishments, we take some time to analyze how it also impacted the game market. Tune in for some great banter on Apples impact on the origins of gaming. ‘Jobs’ well done!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
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The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki
Contact us with any questions or comments-
Zack Gilbert- zgilbert@edreach.us
… Read the rest
RPG’s (role-playing games) are becoming more popular and don’t need to be played in your mother’s basement. EdGamer found a free RPG on GeekDad and it got us to think about ways these games could be used in schools. There are so many useful skills within a role-playing game. We also have an update on Civilization IV and a chart that describes How Video Games are Changing Education. Enjoy!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
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The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki
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… Read the rest
Think you can design a game that could last for a thousand years? On this episode of EdGamer find an online contest that asks you to do just that! Plus we revisit our Portal fascination with a new short film by Dan Trachtenberg. You can find information about these plus a solid half hour of our natural humor and wit…who could want more? Check out EdGamer Episode 23!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
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The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki
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… Read the rest
This week’s episode of EdGamer is truly unique…Zack is cursing with tools and Gerry has HIVEs!!! Tune in for some smack talk about GameStop, Zack’s plans to buy his wife a new phone and a phenomenal article about the exciting future of games and storytelling in education. This blurb may be misleading at best, but don’t let it stop you from checking out this action packed EdGamer podcast.
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributor:Gerry James
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The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki
Call us on our comment line!
… Read the rest
On the 21st installment of EdGamer we breakdown the the recent addition of games to Google+. Can these games, or Google+ in general, be beneficial to our classroom environment? Also, we review an article that talks to the real professionals (the students!) about what they would like to see in our current school system. They have some interesting thoughts on integrating technology in our schools. Check out this episode of EdGamer for an in-depth discussion about these topics and more!… Read the rest
EdGamer 20 is short and sweet, but it doesn’t lack any punch! In fact, in honor of our 20th show, we give you a gift. In this episode we pass along to the listener a list of places we routinely check and monitor to find all the great sites, tools and gadgets we bring to you each week! We have brought you into the sporadic, sarcastic, app-addicted and often downright scary brain behind EdGamer…good luck and enjoy!Additional… Read the rest
Don’t be upset with the title Sid. I don’t think Civ World was meant for gamers like me. EdGamer 19 discusses Sid Meier’s new creation Civ World, which is hosted on Facebook. Lucas Gillispie (guest appearance #3) and I discuss Civ World, ISTE, World of Warcraft, and current gaming news. What new Xbox Live Arcade game should I buy? What upcoming MMO could replace WoW in the classroom? EdGamer 19…listen you must!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
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The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki.
… Read the rest
Welcome to EdGamer Episode 18! As we creep closer and closer to our 20th episode we dive deeper into the world of mass gaming. Our topics of interest this week include a look at just how fast gaming is growing through social media, the way social media is corrupting the image of gaming, and how businesses are using gaming as educational tools. We also check out a great site for students where they can keep themselves busy and refresh some skills during the summer months.… Read the rest
Welcome to EdGamer episode 17! This week we get judicial as we discuss the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the California law that banned sales of violent video games to children. We also touch on another board game and discuss teen virtual worlds. This episode is chock full of random video game and education talk as we discuss all the topics that have been nagging on our brains lately. Tune in and don’t miss a minute of another great episode of EdGamer!… Read the rest
EdGamer will not be heard in its entirety. Half of EdGamer 16 has disapparated (Harry Potter terminology) into the unknown. The show will end a little after the 35 minute mark. Gerry and I had a few issues with Skype and all seemed well with our recording until I went to edit the show. Our last Skype hiccup stopped my recording even though the recording program still showed that all operations were normal. I will call this lesson learned. … Read the rest
What does “Will U Wii U” mean? Check out EdGamer Episode 14 for some serious game talk and some seriously goofy phrases. This week we look at Wii U and dual screen gaming on the iPad as new gaming platforms that blur the lines between home and mobile entertainment. Then we spend some time discussing the iOS Game Center and finish up with a killer review of the E3 conference held in Vegas this week. Will U Wii U?… Read the rest
This week on EdGamer Episode 14, we discuss the potential uses of Facebook in the classroom. From utilizing the gaming features the addictive communicative qualities; the possibilities of using Facebook in the educational setting are as endless as one’s creativity. However, every great idea comes with its fair share of pitfalls. In this podcast, we talk about the positives (i.e. mobile education) and the negatives (i.e. inappropriate use) of introducing Facebook in your classroom. Join us for this interesting look at educational uses for the most popular social networking site in history.… Read the rest
Do you have trouble getting access to technology, within your school, for gaming? Board games offer a simple and nice alternative for gaming in the classroom. Gerry and I discuss our childhood board gaming experiences, which includes Candy Land and Axis and Allies. We explain why board games should be part of your classroom resources and how they can lead to learning. Listen to the Boardwalk of educational gaming podcasts!
Show Host: Zack Gilbert
Show contributors: Gerry James
Subscribe to The EdReach Podcasts on iTunes
Subscribe to the EdReach Podcast Feed
The complete show notes are now on the EdGamer Wiki.
… Read the rest
We brought back episode 7 guest Lucas Gillispie. He is our resident expert on the use of World of Warcraft within the classroom. Lucas discusses his curriculum and the use of machinima. Machinima is the use of real-time video graphics (from games) and creating a cinematic production. Lucas is finalizing a full year curriculum based on WoW and he has connected these lessons to the common core standards. We also discussed 3D GameLab, new games, and upcoming games, which should be helpful for those who are searching for some fun.… Read the rest
This week I interviewed Chris Haskell from Boise State University. They not only have a great football team, with a colorful field, but they have an excellent Educational Technology program.
Chris Haskell and Lisa Dawley have designed an online educational software platform that could transform content and delivery for years to come. Learn about 3D GameLab, from EdGamer, before you hear it from your peers.
About Chris:
With experience as a Music Educator and an M.S.… Read the rest
To show my authentic excitement for this interview, I have left an error in the audio concerning the numbering of this podcast. This is Episode 10 and not 11 as stated in the beginning of the recording. Enjoy!
We have a very special interview this week on EdGamer to celebrate our 10th episode together! And what better way to celebrate than with a GEEnius? That’s right, the guru of gaming and learning, James Paul Gee of Arizona State University joins us to give us his take on gaming, learning, and education as a whole!… Read the rest
In episode 9 of EdGamer we go in-depth on what we feel could be one of the most important game releases in a long time for video games and education…Portal 2! This game is being well received by the gaming community and takes a step up from its predecessor (Portal) by introducing coop gaming. Listen in as we discuss Portal 2’s possible impact in the classroom. Do not miss EdGamer Episode 9!
Links:
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Plot information for Portal
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Portal as required reading at a college
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Funny article about Students that are Portal 2 Addicts
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Portal on Wikipedia
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Portal 2 on Wikipedia
Youtube Game Reviews and Previews:
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Portal 2 Coop Trailer
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Portal 2 Video Preview
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E3 Portal 2 Hands On Demo
Co-host- Gerry James
… Read the rest
Guests, guests and more guests! Episode 8 finds EdGamer interviewing notable intellectual Sylvia Martinez about her her personal history with gaming and education. Sylvia is the President of Generation YES.
GenYES is an innovative program that creates 21st century leaders and learners. GenYES students help teachers use technology in classrooms, supporting effective technology integration school-wide. (from genyes.org)
We have had some fantastic guests so far, however Sylvia gives us a unique vantage point due to her extensive history with gaming in the private sector.… Read the rest
Alternate title that was not used- Kids Know What Real Games Are
We’ve done it again! For the second straight week we have a fascinating guest on EdGamer. This week’s episode (Episode 7) finds us chatting with Lucas Gillispie, an Instructional Technology Coordinator for Pender County Schools in southeastern North Carolina. Lucas has a history with gaming and education that eclipses 99 percent of the field.
A little about Lucas (from his site http://edurealms.com/) –
His current projects include the WoWinSchool Project, a collaborative effort to explore the impact of using World of Warcraft in both an after-school program and as part of the regular instructional program, Minecraft in School, which seeks to explore the use of Minecraft in with elementary learners, and iPod Games for Learning, a program that uses the iPad and iPod Touch as platforms for game-based learning. … Read the rest
You wanted more…you got it! Last week we on EdGamer we discussed a teacher from NYC who was using the game Minecraft in his elementary school classes. In this episode of EdGamer we are happy to introduce our first guest…the “Minecraft Teachr” himself…Joel Levin from Columbia Grammar and Preparatory School in NYC. Listen in as Joel joins us and talks about his experiences with Minecraft, the benefits of gaming in education, and how to go about using Minecraft in YOUR classroom.… Read the rest
On Episode #5 of EdGamer we discuss three websites that caught our attention this week. We take a look at the new release of Sims Medieval from EA games and debate the possible educational uses for the program. Then we take some time to discuss a teacher from New York who is currently using the game Minecraft to help educate his elementary students. Finally we introduce and discuss an illustrated video to the sound clip of a presentation from Sir Ken Robinson.… Read the rest
On Episode #4 of EdGamer we discuss the games our students are playing outside of our classrooms. Few teachers, or parents for that matter, have a solid idea of the types of games their children are playing. We take some time to look at the different types of games students are playing as well as discuss some informal research we did with our students about their gaming habits. Listen to this episode to hear more about the diversity between male and female student gamers, the different platforms for games, as well as the possibility of integrating these games into our classrooms.… Read the rest
To Whom it May Concern:
I am looking for an easy gaming platform to use in my classroom. I would like it handle single, coop, and multiplayer versions of educational games. I would like it to connect my classroom and other classrooms so interactions can take place between students. As a Steam user, my thoughts came quickly to your platform and how easy it is to connect to other players. I have been using games to educate for many years.… Read the rest
On the second episode of the Ed Gamer podcast, we take some time to review the ICE (Illinois Computing Educators) we recently attended in St. Charles, IL. A lot of ground has been made in the world of gaming and education, but there is still much to do. During this podcast we examine the difference between virtual learning environments (such as World of Warcraft and SecondLife) and simple outcome games (ie. Tetris…there has to be a better example).… Read the rest
- “The Games That We Play”
- There are many games that Gerry and I use in the classroom. We have picked six games that we currently use and we will explain why we use them.
- Zack’s Pick- BBC Interactive Games
- Mummy Maker
- Pyramid Challenge
- Gerry’s Pick- Classic classroom games: The Great Debate
- Involves Role Play
- Students can be forced to see multiple perspectives on one issue
- Includes current events
- Zack’s Pick- Word on the Street by Out of the Box Games
- On each turn, one team flips over a category card.
… Read the rest