Game Design

There is no doubt that digital games have captured the attention, interest, and time of youth. A 2015 report from the Pew Research Center states that 81% of teens have access to game consoles, and 72% play games online or on their phones. To anyone who has played a well-designed video game, these statistics are unsurprising. Video games can be exciting and engaging; stories of staying up all night to beat a game, or rushing home after school or work to get back to playing, are common. There are networks, blogs, and entire economies devoted to video games.

The enthusiasm, excitement, and commitment often shown toward video games are quite different from the typical feelings or behaviors that students exhibit toward traditional schooling. Yet completing a ...