Software for Learning | Games and Simulations | Introduction |
SimCity
review #2

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The Software
Title: SimCity Copyright date: 1993
Publisher: Maxis/Sim-Business Cost $49.95
Computer: DOS, Windows, Macintosh Requirements: DOS:IBM PC/XT & above; VGA monitor; 640K RAM and hard disk; MS-Dos 3.1 or above

Windows:IBM 286 & above; 12 MHz; VGA, EGA; 2MB RAM and hard disk; Windows 3.1 or above

Mac:Macintosh Plus, SE, Classic, LC, II series, Centris, Performa, or Quadra; 16-color monitor; 25MB RAM; System 6.0.2 or above
Distribution: Floppy Disks (2-3)
The Reviewer
Name: Heidi-Christa Adams college: Mesa Community College
Date: April 17, 1995 Discipline(s) taught: Counseling

Evaluating the Computer Game
STATEMENT RATING
Excellent Good Fair Poor N/A
1. The directions for the program are: X
2. The program's screen design was: X
3. The ease of use of this program was: X
4. Help provided within this program was: X
5. The degree to which the content was up to date was: X
6. The degree to which the program represented the diversity of our student population was: X
7. On the whole, the program was: X

COMMENTS
It could be used in values exploration and clarification

Evaluating the Instructor Materials
STATEMENT RATING
Excellent Good Fair Poor N/A
1. The directions in the instructor guide was: X
2. Learning objectives of the lessons were: X
3. The organization of the lesson was: X
4. The appropriateness of lessons for college level student was: X
5. The assessment/discussion questions at the end of the lessons were: X
6. The completeness of the teaching materials was: X
7. On the whole, the instructor guide was: X

COMMENTS

Evaluating the Program as a Tool for Teaching and Learning

  1. How would you use this program in your class? Identify a specific application for part of your curriculum (if possible).
    Sim City could be used in a values clarification exercise as well as a way for students to explore their interest in urban planning and development.
  2. How could this program be used for teaching and learning in other disciplines?
    Math and architecture have very direct applications of this game, however, this game could be used in studying geography or cultural differences in foreign language classes.
  3. How effective was the simulation environment in providing an enhanced learning experience?
    It was effective. It encouraged exploration and risk-taking. The immediate feedback was great.
  4. What factors might limit the use of this program by instructors?
    The instruction needs to be very clear on what this game/program can and cannot do.
  5. Would your recommend this program for teaching and learning? If yes, why would you recommend this program?
    Yes, it is an excellent tool for students to become more aware of urban planning, budgeting, and their own preferences.
  6. If no, why would you not recommend this program?
Additional Comments