Game Science in Hybrid Learning Spaces explores the potential, implications, and impact of game-based approaches and interventions in response to the blurring of boundaries between digital and physical as well as formal and informal learning spaces and contexts. The book delves into the concept, opportunities, and challenges of hybrid learning, which aims to reduce the barriers of time and physical space in teaching and learning practices, fostering seamless, sustained, and measurable learning experience and outcomes beyond the barriers of formal education and physical learning contexts. Based on original research, Game Science in Hybrid Learning Spaces establishes trans-disciplinary and holistic considerations for further conceptual and empirical investigation into this topic, with the dual goals of a better understanding of the role of game-based approaches in a blended environment and of the possible structural and cultural transformation of formal education and lifelong learning. This book is an essential guide for researchers, designers, teachers, learners, and practitioners who want to better understand the relationship between games and learning that merges digital and physical experiences and blends formal and informal instructions.

Exploring the science in George R. R. Martin's fantastical world, from the physics of an ice wall to the genetics of the Targaryens and Lannisters. Game of Thrones is a fantasy that features a lot of made-up science—fabricated climatology (when is winter coming?), astronomy, metallurgy, chemistry, and biology. Most fans of George R. R. Martin's fantastical world accept it all as part of the magic. A trained scientist, watching the fake science in Game of Thrones, might think, “But how would it work?” In Fire, Ice, and Physics, Rebecca Thompson turns a scientist's eye on Game of Thrones, exploring, among other things, the science of an ice wall, the genetics of the Targaryen and Lannister families, and the biology of beheading. Thompson, a PhD in physics and an enthusiastic Game of Thrones fan, uses the fantasy science of the show as a gateway to some interesting real science, introducing GOT fandom to a new dimension of appreciation. Thompson starts at the beginning, with winter, explaining seasons and the very elliptical orbit of the Earth that might cause winter to come (or not come). She tells us that ice can behave like ketchup, compares regular steel to Valyrian steel, explains that dragons are “bats, but with fire,” and considers Targaryen inbreeding. Finally she offers scientific explanations of the various types of fatal justice meted out, including beheading, hanging, poisoning (reporting that the effects of “the Strangler,” administered to Joffrey at the Purple Wedding, resemble the effects of strychnine), skull crushing, and burning at the stake. Even the most faithful Game of Thrones fans will learn new and interesting things about the show from Thompson's entertaining and engaging account. Fire, Ice, and Physics is an essential companion for all future bingeing.

A myth-busting, jaw-dropping, fun-filled tour through the science of your favorite fantastical world. Award-winning comedian and popular-science writer Helen Keen uncovers the astounding science behind the mystical, blood-soaked world of Game of Thrones, answering questions like: Is it possible to crush a person's head with your bare hands? What really happens when royal families interbreed? Does Cersei have Borderline Personality Disorder? What curious medical disorder does Hodor suffer from? And more. Join Keen as she investigates wildfire, ice walls, face transplants, and every wild feature of Westeros and beyond, revealing a magical world that may be closer to our own than we think. The Science of Game of Thrones is the ultimate guide to the epic series as well as the perfect gift for science-lovers and fans. So pour yourself a bowl of brown, climb on your beast of burden, and prepare yourself to see the Seven Kingdoms as you have never seen them before.

The Craft and Science of Game Design: A Video Game Designer’s Manual goes into the nuts and bolts of video game development from the perspective of a veteran designer with more than 20 years of experience in the industry. It covers the psychology and biology of why people play games and goes in depth on the techniques and tricks professional game designers use to be successful in game development. If you are looking to make a career in video games, or are already in the industry, the insights and hard-earned lessons contained in this book are sure to be useful at all levels of the profession. Originally from Canada, Phil O’Connor has been making video games all over the world since 1997. Phil has worked at some of the industry’s largest studios on some of the biggest projects, including Far Cry 3 and Rainbow Six Siege. With credits on nearly 20 games, Phil has shared in this book some of the less-known details of being a game designer in today’s video game industry, along with a breakdown of some of the skills to help professional designers shine.

An accessible and authoritative approach to effective science teaching, this text is the work of 16 contributors who each employ a single metaphor that will resonate with readers --that science education can and should be considered an exciting game. With "Windows Into the Classroom" personal accounts and "The Game in Action" vignettes students are provided with practical applications throughout the book. Many contributors to this book were involved in the development and draft review of the National Science Education Standards, and therefore fully appreciate the importance of overtly linking research-based commentary and recommendations to the Standards. As a result, the entire work is steeped in a current research foundation tied closely to the National Science Education Standards. Features of this new text: "Windows into the classroom" personal accounts and "The Game in Action" vignettes provide practical applications throughout the book. Written in accessible first person accounts, each contributor takes a conversational approach that will appeal to a broad audience of readers. Introductions establishes the game metaphor that sustains the chapter and weaves throughout the book. Conclusions leaves the reader with upbeat and practical suggestions for effective science teaching. Author Biographies highligh the distinguished record of achievement of each contributor. Additional Resources at the end of each chapter provide suggestions of useful readings, websites, and other instructional instruments. Reflection questions intended to provoke the reader to apply the ideas and concepts unearthed in the chapter to his or her own unique vantage or condition as an educator. "The research base of this proposal is a 10 on a scale of 1-10 ...I'm impressed with the style and theme of the essays ...my students would learn a great deal regarding the practical application of science education." Professor David R. Wetzel, "Bloomsburg University" "I very much like the use of the analogy of a "Game" used by the authors. 'The text is VERY readable." Professor Molly Weinburgh "Georgia State University" "The writing style and use of the game metaphor will undoubtedly grab undergraduate, alternate entry, and graduate student interest." Professor Warren J. DiBiase, EdD "University of North Carolina, Charlotte" Author Bio A decorated veteran of high school science teaching, Jeff now researches effective science teaching and learning, testing innovations on his students at Northern Iowa. He also develops curriculum, consults at local and national levels, and serves science education organizations. He has published research and philosophy in Educational Leadership, Phi Delta Kappa, The Science Teacher, The American Biology Teacher, Education Week, the Journal of College Science Teaching, the Journal of Science Teacher Education, the International Journal of Science Education, and Teacher magazine. Page 1 of 2

Praised by Entertainment Weekly as “the man who put the fizz into physics,” Dr. Len Fisher turns his attention to the science of cooperation in his lively and thought-provoking book. Fisher shows how the modern science of game theory has helped biologists to understand the evolution of cooperation in nature, and investigates how we might apply those lessons to our own society. In a series of experiments that take him from the polite confines of an English dinner party to crowded supermarkets, congested Indian roads, and the wilds of outback Australia, not to mention baseball strategies and the intricacies of quantum mechanics, Fisher sheds light on the problem of global cooperation. The outcomes are sometimes hilarious, sometimes alarming, but always revealing. A witty romp through a serious science, Rock, Paper, Scissors will both teach and delight anyone interested in what it what it takes to get people to work together.

In this inspiring book of personal insight and sound advice, veteran scientist Carl J. Sindermann gives an insider's look at the competitive world of science and reveals the best strategies for attaining prominence and success. Taking apart the many different roles scientists must play during their careers, Sindermann compares common mistakes scientists make with what the best strategists do-whether they are publishing papers, presenting data, chairing meetings, or coping with government or academic bureaucracy. In the end, he maintains, well-honed interpersonal skills, a savvy eye on one's competitors, and excellent science are the keys to a satisfying and successful career.