Embedded Game Type Example

Embedded games are sometimes called “casual” or “extrinsic” games. These games allow learners to engage with the content in a fun way, while reinforcing the learning objectives through play. Embedded gaming strategies can include drag-n-drop, sequencing, matching, trivia, etc.

Digitec develops custom embedded games or you can use our Direct-to-WEB rapid content authoring tool within Knowledge Direct to create Flash-based interactive eLearning using Microsoft PowerPoint.

Direct-to-WEB transforms PowerPoint files into Flash-based learning modules that include games-based activities, test questions, narration and more. Simply upload your new or existing PowerPoint file, then insert YouTube videos or any one of the available interactive game activities to the presentation for fast, fun eLearning. Games types include matching, drag-and-drops, sequencing, hot spot images, lines games and more!

Unlike other applications, Direct-to-WEB is a web-based authoring tool, not a desktop application requiring multiple costly licenses for individual content authors. Direct-to-WEB “takes to the cloud,” allowing content creators to collaborate, revise and re-purpose the eLearning from anywhere in the world. Direct-to-WEB is also the first rapid content authoring tool which automatically creates a version of the learning for all web browsers and mobile devices including the iPhone, iPad, Android, and Blackberry. A separate auto file is also automatically created, enabling learners to listen to the learning from their MP3 player.

• Convert Microsoft PowerPoint presentations to Flash and HTML 5
• Insert an unlimited number of game activities and YouTube videos
• Use pre-built templates to create Flash activities
• No programming or technical skills required!

Embedded games are a simple way to include game-based learning in your organization.

Collaborative Game Type Example

Research shows that introducing competitive gaming can increase learner engagement and retention. These collaborative environments let learners test themselves, build teams and create a challenge.

The National Consumers League uses Digitec’s Multiplayer Challenge Game Engine for its high school Lifesmarts program. In this online “brainbowl” competition, teams across the country compete against one another in preparation for a live competition.

Cisco Systems also uses the Multiplayer Challenge (MPC) Game Engine for CCNA exam preparation. Hosted on Digitec’s secure servers, Cisco employees access the game through the CCNA web site, bringing together thousands of players who compete (and prepare) online.

Need to train people in various geographical locations without the communication breakdown? No problem! The engine includes real-time chat, so people can join teams and challenge one another in a real-time, fun, collaborative learning environment.

• Customizable user interface for corporate branding
• XML-driven database for multiple-choice and short-answer questions
• Create an unlimited number of questions
• Track player scores and post the highest ones
• Set the buzzer time limit and number of questions per game

Game Based Simulations

Game-based Simulation Example

Story is a universal and an effective educational approach, yet often with game-based eLearning, creative storyline is overlooked.

2500 years ago, Aristotle recognized the importance of story and wrote a pretty good book on it. The Poetics said that every good story needs to have character, plot, idea, language, music and spectacle. A good eLearning design should include these.

In Game-based simulations, the ancient idea is combined with the interactive use of play. Here, players use strategy to overcome dramatic conflict. Simulations enable players to role-play various characters in the story and act out the solution.

Digitec has in-depth experience in both story and play. We specialize in designing custom instructional games that use rich media and robust simulations. Featuring dynamic, XML-driven Flash applications, these game-based simulations provide:

• Extensible content
• Branching and multi-pathing
• Score tracking

Immersive eLearning Games

Immersive Game Type Example

Immersive eLearning games involve “immersing” the learner into a fully simulated environment. The learning occurs through trial and error, with prescriptive learning modules assigned after the event, based on the learner’s performance. This model encourages rehearsal and practice, so a learner can master the concepts.

Digitec has created immersive eLearning for marketing, financial education, and life skills. Digitec has also designed games to teach history — by traveling in time machines to immerse a player into a past situation to live out historical events.

If you are ready to immerse your learners in a custom 3-D environment, where they have permission to “fail forward” as they try different strategies to solve problems and move to the next level, Digitec can take them there.

Digitec has developed a customizable Flash game engine and has also developed using the Unreal^® gaming engine to create business-oriented training and simulation.

• Customized game engine
• Team training
• Simulation and advanced problem-solving