Serious Games

GRAND Seminar April 24, noon, Tue., 2012, ENGR 4201

Len Annetta
http://www.lenannetta.com
http://ncgraduate.com
Associate professor
Science Education
GMU

Host:

Jan Allbeck

Abstract:

This research presentation will illustrate how Dr. Annetta began studying Serious Games and the funded research he has been awarded throughout his career. His work in scientific visualization, with a specific focus on spatial visualization and mental rotation, will be highlighted from new data on high school students in the National Science Foundation funded GRADUATE project. Finally, this talk will communicate Dr. Annetta’s vision for how Serious Games can bridge a variety of disciplines.

Short Bio:

An associate professor of Science Education at George Mason University, Dr. Annetta’s research has focused on distance learning and the effect of instructional technology on science learning of teachers and students in underserved populations. Understanding the popularity of online, multiuser video game play, Dr. Annetta has been awarded over $5 million in grants to support his work on distance learning and the use of Serious Educational Games as a vehicle for learning STEM content and STEM career awareness. In 2008, he was honored with three awards for his extension work teaching K-12 teachers and students’ video game design and creation. These awards were progressive from the College of Education Outstanding Extension Service Award, to the induction into the NC State University Academy of Outstanding Faculty Engaged in Extension to the Distinguished Alumni Engaged in Extension and Outreach award. Moreover, Dr. Annetta has twice been awarded the National Technology Leadership Initiative Fellowship in Science Education and Technology from the Association of Science Teacher Education and the Society for Information Technology and Teacher Education.