The SMTE NSF project will demonstrate and distribute Survival Master at the ITEEA 2013 National Conference in Columbus, OH on March 7 - 9, 2013.

Attend the "Survival Master: Blending Physical Modeling and Gaming" presentation on Saturday, March 9th at 11:00 am at the ITEEA Annual Conference for a chance to learn about the Survival Master computer game from the project developers and expert engineering and technology educators who have pilot-tested the materials. Attendees will be provided with complimentary access to the game and the physical modeling curriculum for use with their classes.

SURVIVAL MASTER:  is a 3D Computer Game designed specifically for secondary school engineering and technology education students.

The browser-based 3D computer game teaches students about surface area and volume of geometric shapes, heat flow, and structural design in the context of a challenge to design a shelter for survivors of an earthquake in a very cold climate. The shelter must be designed to retain the heat generated by four survivors, and withstand a given snow load and wind load.

Simulations and Modeling in Technology Education (SMTE) is a five-year National Science Foundation-funded project that is researching the potential of a hybrid instructional model that blends computer gaming and physical modeling using tools and materials. The project, conducted by Hofstra University, has designed a four-week-long 3D computer game called Survival Master and a companion physical modeling curriculum specifically for middle school engineering and technology education students and teachers based on the Standards for Technological Literacy. Project research is comparing student learning and engagement in gaming and more traditional physical modeling delivery modes.