Educational computer games provide an environment in which interactions among students, teachers, and texts differ non-trivially from those of the traditional classroom. In order to build and research computer games effectively, it is important to provide a theoretical background that adequately describes and explains learning and interactions in a virtual environment. This article presents the theory of communities of practice as one possible theoretical backing. Five aspects of this theory are presented: shared goals, shared practices, legitimate peripheral participation, co-evolution and adaptation, and identity development. Each aspect is explained and related to educational computer games. Suggestions for game designers and researchers are also given.

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A Communities of Practice Perspective on Educational Computer Games

Curt Reese*
* Instructor, University of Texas at Austin
Periodicity:October - December'2008
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jet.5.3.504

Abstract

Educational computer games provide an environment in which interactions among students, teachers, and texts differ non-trivially from those of the traditional classroom. In order to build and research computer games effectively, it is important to provide a theoretical background that adequately describes and explains learning and interactions in a virtual environment. This article presents the theory of communities of practice as one possible theoretical backing. Five aspects of this theory are presented: shared goals, shared practices, legitimate peripheral participation, co-evolution and adaptation, and identity development. Each aspect is explained and related to educational computer games. Suggestions for game designers and researchers are also given.

Keywords

Educational Computer Games, Communities of Practice, Legitimate Peripheral Participation.

How to Cite this Article?

Curt Reese (2008). A Communities Of Practice Perspective On Educational Computer Games. i-manager’s Journal of Educational Technology, 5(3), 9-13. https://doi.org/10.26634/jet.5.3.504

References

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