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Game Studies Study Buddies

65 – Ito – Engineering Play

Dec 31, 2023
Mizuko Ito, author of Engineering Play, discusses the cultural history of children's software. Topics include the evolution of educational software, the intersection of education and entertainment in gaming, and the use of fun as resistance in educational settings. The conversation also touches on gender dynamics in gaming, construction software tools, and the influence of technology on play styles.
01:46:09

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Edutainment software often prioritizes game progression over learning, exemplified by 'The Island of Dr. Brain'
  • Children's software blurs entertainment-education boundaries with multimedia experiences like 'The Magic School Bus'

Deep dives

Academics Genre of Children's Software

The academic genre of children's software focuses on aligning game mechanics with educational concepts, leading to a trend where educational content is tacked on to game design. This chapter explores the emergence of edutainment software, highlighting how games like 'The Island of Dr. Brain' prioritize game progression over actual learning. It delves into the case of Roger, a tech-savvy but disruptive child at the fifth dimension site, exemplifying how game design often trumps educational goals in children's software.

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