Final Vlog

Imagery and Figurative Language Lesson

Gamestar Mechanic- The Crucible

Media Discovery 7- Video Game Creation Tools

Scratch

Usability:

Scratch was designed especially for kids ages 8-18, so in the world of game design it is fairly easy to use. First-time users do have to familiarize themselves with the features and tools which can take some time.

Motivation:

Students can use Scratch to create their own interactive stories, games, and animations and also share them with others. It helps students to think creatively, reason, and work collaboratively.

Pros:

• Can be used at all levels and across disciplines (math, language arts, social studies, etc)
• Free
• Teach basic programming concepts

Cons:

• Limited features

Kodu

Usability:

Kodu is a fairly easy to use game creation tool designed for users of all ages with no design or programming skills. However, it does still take some time for first-time users to familiarize themselves with the features and tools.

Motivation:

Kodu can be used to teach creativity, problem-solving, storytelling, as well as programming.

Pros:

• Free (PC version)
• Offers a XBox version as well
• 3D 
• nice graphics

Cons:

• Limited features

Week 6 Vlog

Having Fun with Augmented Reality Apps

Media Discovery: Augmented Reality Apps

Aurasma

Usability:

Aurasma is an easy to use augmented reality app that can be used by both teachers and students. The Aurasma app offers users a clean, user-friendly interface as well helpful tutorials that walk first-time users through the process of creating their first "aura".

Motivation:

The possible uses of the Aurasma app in the classroom is limitless. Teachers can use it to bring their curriculum to life so to speak and offer their students a more engaging and effective way to learn new material. Students can also use the app to demonstrate their understanding of information or a concept.

Pros:

• Free
• can be used on Chromebooks and can upload images and videos that are save in Google Drive
• App is extremely easy to use

Cons:

• Although auras can be created on Chromebooks, students who used the app found it to be much easier user-friendly.

SkyView

Usability:

SkyView is an educational astronomy augmented reality app. This app is easy to use; you simply point the device at the sky to begin learning.

Motivation:

This app offers a fun, interactive way for students to learn about stars, planets, constellations, satellites, and the sun and moon.

Pros:

• Wifi is not required 
• offers a free version, but even the paid version is $0.99
• Users can select a date (past or future) and view the sky on that particular day

Cons:

• not compatible with all mobile devices
• alignment can sometimes be off, but still in the general direction