In a Nutshell...
We strive to make Math and Science learning really, really fun! : )

In Detail...
The research activities of the UBC EGEMS research team focus on the human-computer interaction issues associated with learning in an electronic game environment. Specific topics include:

• We engage learners (9-14) in conscious reflective exploration of math concepts.
  • This is studying which game formats (e.g. fast-action, simulations, puzzles, etc.) can be used to carry math and science educational content most effectively in terms of attractiveness to students and conductiveness of learning.
• We increase achievement, confidence, and enjoyment in math and other subjects (and in using computers).
  
  • This refers to create appropriate reward system and embellishments of the games to motivate students to learn.
    
• We support a range of learning style preferences (gender issues).
  
  • Boys and girls learn in different manners. In many cases, our studies show that girls often progress more meticulously than boys in playing games. This does not imply that girls learn slower or less than boys at a given time, but that girls seems to be engaged in other exploring activities while boys tends to march through the levels in the game; and we want our games to be supportive of both.
    
• Our programs do not stand alone: they are integrated with other forms of education (teacher, textbook, etc.)
  
  • Our games don't contain all there is to know about certain topics; thus they are best to be used in conjunction with other teaching materials such as textbooks etc.. We are studying how to integrate electronic game learning with more traditional classroom learning environments and this covers research in the effect of collaborative play and the role of mediation by teachers.
    

External Funding...
EGEMS research is currently supported by funding from:

• The Province of BC
• Electronic Arts Canada
  
• Media and Graphics Interdisciplinary Centre (MAGIC)
  
• The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)
  
• Apple Computer