Research in Learning Technology (Dec 2001)

Reviews

  • Philip Barker,
  • Andrea Frank,
  • Chris Jones,
  • Elaine Pearson,
  • Gillian Jordan,
  • John Traxler,
  • Linda Clark

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3402/rlt.v9i2.12031
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9, no. 2

Abstract

Read online

The theme of this year's International Simulation and Gaming Yearbook - 'Transition and Change' - addresses the topical discourse on the improvement of pedagogy by the introduction of active and student-centred learning in UK higher education. Although the value of 'learning-by-doing' and experiential learning is well recognized by researchers in education, many subjects and university courses continue to employ teaching methods (such as lectures) that favour a passive reproduction of information rather than the fostering of student understanding. In this regard, simulations and games are powerful tools that not only promote an active, student-centred approach to learning but have the potential to help realize government policies to improve the quality of teaching and learning in higher education institutions in the UK.