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HI-FIVES: Highly Interactive, Fun Internet Virtual Environments in Science

Funded by the ITEST NSF Program

Researchers in science education, computer science, distance education, and the NC Department of Public Instruction will partner with the Kenan Fellows Program (an NSF model RET site at NC State University) to harness the untapped potential of inexpensive, online multi-user video games in improving the science achievement and IT skills of NC’s grade 6-12 students. The idea is for teachers to supplement their curricula by developing video games, using tools that don’t require advanced computer-programming skills. The project entails rigorous assessment and evaluation of how these environments most effectively improve the IT skills and science content mastery of students, particularly with regard to students with special needs and those from disadvantaged groups. Research into the most effective means of preparing teachers to author and/or incorporate these video games into science instruction will also be conducted and reported.

Principle Investigators: Len Annetta, Michael Young, Tom Miller, Bill Tucci, John Park
Homepage: http://ced.ncsu.edu/hifives/