James Bedenbaugh


Work
I am currently working on the development of a game designed to teach basic programming concepts to children BEFORE they attend higher education. One of the problems with our education system is a distinct lack of Computer Science classes, and studies have shown that games can be used for educational purposes. So utilizing the effectiveness of games for Computer Science education seems a worthy goal.

Planned Features
  • The game will be a multi-player online game.
  • An interactive 2D world.
  • Seamless integration of core Computer Science concepts.
  • A variety of options to conform to all skill levels.
  • Mechanisms to encourage teamwork and group learning.
Dimension D - A Game that Teaches Java


The Equinox Engine

I have been working on creating an engine for this project. This engine, under the working title of Equinox, is an engine designed to create 2D games with a top-down perspective (where the view of the game is above the player character and looking down).

Video Game Engines from the Ground Up
Presentation: Game Engine Development from Ground Up


Entertainment First

Entertainment first is a discussion of how to create educational games capable of holding players' interest.

Things such as long explanations, forced learning, and harsh failure penalties are bad for keeping players interested in the game. It is important to remember that games are supposed to be fun, and that if they are not fun, then no one will play them, regardless of the quality of their educational content.

Entertainment First
Presentation: Entertainment First



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