Aesthetics and Design for Game-based Learning [Hardcover]

Aesthetics and Design for Game-based Learningprovides learning designers with insight into how the different elements that comprise game aesthetics can inform the design of game-based learning. Regardless of the cognitive complexities involved, games are essentially entertainment media, and aesthetics play a large role in how they are experienced. Yet too often the role of aesthetics in the research about game-based learning has been relegated to a surface discussion of graphics or neglected altogether.

Aesthetics and Design for Game-based Learningbegins by addressing the broad context of game aesthetics, then addresses specific elements with chapters focusing on:

• player positioning
• game mechanics
• narrative design
• environment design
• character design.

Each chapter includes research and guidelines for design, and a conclusion addresses aesthetics in the research of game-based learning.

Series Editor Introduction

Acknowledgments

Chapter 1: Aesthetics, Experiences and Games

Chapter 2: Aesthetics and Game Genres

Chapter 3: Aesthetics and Player Perspective

Chapter 4: Aesthetics and Narrative Design

Chapter 5: Aesthetics and Character Design

Chapter 6: Aesthetics and Environment Design

Chapter 7: Aesthetics and Game Mechanics

Chapter 8: Aesthetics, Inquiry and Research

This book is about a vital but neglected aspect of game-based learning: emotionally imbuing participants with motivation and meaning through aesthetic experiences. Like the vision of games it espouses, Dickey weaves a seamless, elegant, and complete exposition of design principles for aesthetic learlñ