Pandemic is a treasure trove of concepts. Explore practical applications of the board game to teach middle/high school level life science, mathematics, public health, and more.
Description:
In a medical themed sophomore STEAM course, I use the board game Pandemic to introduce students to the CDC, to discuss roles on a team (and how they can use their strengths), map skills, vocabulary, strategy, and more. Many aspects of the game can be supported with content and activities from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, as well. Participants should leave with a list of how to use Pandemic in their classroom as well as a broader discussion of how games can support classroom learning.
Using Non-Linear Storytelling to Deliver Classroom Content
Summary:
Use the CYOA structure of Bandersnatch to teach in your classroom. Look at various narrative webs and explore STEAM examples where story drives the learning and students make meaningful choices.
Description:
Bandersnatch (Black Mirror), which uses the Choose-Your-Own-Adventure format, gives watchers a way to make their own path through digital content and feel like their choices have meaning. The format can be applied to a classroom/library/museum setting where student choice can create unique experiences while also maintaining shared goals with the rest of the class.
This session discusses various narration webs to allow students to make choices in their learning/research/activity. We have used this method in STEAM courses, immersive theatre, and museum exhibits with positive results.
Many examples and formats will be explored including paper format, Google Slides, ClassCraft, and more. Participants should leave with ideas for lesson plans and templates to build out for their own classes.