Description:
In spring 2012, WestEd conducted a formative evaluation of 24 alpha versions of PBS KIDS transmedia games with preschool and elementary school teachers and their students (See Table 1). The transmedia suites are designed to improve core literacy and numeracy skills for children through activities that feature a connected narrative across multiple media platforms, such as computers, TVs, tablets, mobile devices, and interactive whiteboards. Many of the games are based on popular PBS KIDS programs. Games were pilot tested from the following PBS KIDS transmedia suites: The Cat in the Hat Knows A Lot About That!, Dinosaur Train, Martha Speaks, Super WHY!, Cyberchase, Fizzy's Lunch Lab, Prankster Planet, and Wild Kratts. The Martha Speaks, Super Why!, The Cat in the Hat, and Dinosaur Train games are designed for preschool students, while the Wild Kratts, Prankster Planet, Cyberchase, and Fizzy's Lunch Lab games are designed for elementary students. WestEd tested alpha versions of individual PBS KIDS games with teachers and their students to provide feedback on alignment of game content with academic standards and suitability for classroom use. Teachers also provided suggestions to enhance student learning and overall game play. After receiving the results of the pilot testing, producers created revised alpha and beta versions of the tested games. (author abstract)
Resource Type:
Reports & Papers
Publisher(s):
Funder(s):
Country:
United States
State(s)/Territories/Tribal Nation(s):
California;
Connecticut;
New Jersey;
Ohio