Purpose: Results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress show that less than a quarter of students reach the proficient standard for civics knowledge at grade 8 and again in grade 12.  While formal classroom instruction is identified as a standard practice for improving civics education, simulations and games provide new opportunities to simulate engagement to promote civic knowledge and understanding. In this project the team will develop a prototype of Civics Bridge, a digital interactive adventure game and companion full-year curriculum for students ages 14 to 16 to learn about and practice civics.

Project Activities: In Phase I, the team will develop a prototype of an online game to introduce students to historical figures and foundational civics knowledge and a hybrid portion will engage students in collaborative in-class activities that relate to game-play. At the end of Phase I, a pilot study with 3 educators and 90 high school students will test if the prototype functions as intended, if users are engaged and able to complete the digital and in-person experiences, and if student interest in civics increases after the intervention.

Company Website: https://www.snowbrightstudio.com