Dean Bottino, Liane Brouillette Designing Computer Games that Foster Ethical Behavior in Grades 1 and 2

Problem Bullying is becoming an increasing problem in schools Class sizes are increasing  The teacher-to-student ratio is too small to provide students with the one-to-one attention they need to have these bullying issues addressed This creates an isolating environment in which the child does not feel secure enough to learn

Overview The goal of the game will be to teach social skills to early elementary school children  Grades 1 and 2 are considered a critical developmental stage after which it is difficult to correct social problems Focus will be on discouraging bullying and encouraging conflict resolution The game provides students with a safe environment where they can evaluate their own ability to resolve conflicts

Sources Used to Develop the Game Social Skills Exercises Desired Results Developmental Profiles Student Surveys

Social Skills Exercises Series of exercises used to help young and disabled students identify emotions and conflict Provides a list of steps to go through during social situations

Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP)‏ Evaluation used to assess the social/mental/physical development of students according to state standards

Example of DRDP

Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP)‏ Evaluation used to assess the social/mental/physical development of students according to state standards Goals set by DRDP will be used as a framework for the scenarios and lessons in the game

Student Surveys Early elementary students Asked what types of video games/characters they enjoyed Three most popular games:  Pokémon  Nintendogs  Neopets Common element: collection/building game mechanic Most popular characters  Anime characters Results of survey will be used to develop visual style and gameplay elements

Design of the Game Anime-style characters Story-based gameplay  Branching conversations  Provides scenarios based on the social skills exercises Customization  Allow the student to choose appearance of their character

Progress Game is in early stages of development  The first level has been scripted and is in an early playable form  Character creation and voice acting will eventually be implemented