Video Games as Learning Tools

Now that I've got a bit more leisurely time, reading the NYTimes has been getting more attention. A recent article described how some game produceers, think-tanks, and advocates for peaceful solutions to conflicts have been working to develop games that simulate the decision-making that human beings must use to unravel disputes. The article, "Saving the World, One Video Game at a Time," describes, for one, the game Peacemaker, based on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Big backers are supporting the development of such games, including Carnegie Mellon University. It's apparent that some are beginning to recognize the importance of tapping the interest in gaming. Universities that are training the game-builders of the future should take note.