Players Making Decisions


Book Description

Game designers today are expected to have an arsenal of multi-disciplinary skills at their disposal in the fields of art and design, computer programming, psychology, economics, composition, education, mythology—and the list goes on. How do you distill a vast universe down to a few salient points? Players Making Decisions brings together the wide range of topics that are most often taught in modern game design courses and focuses on the core concepts that will be useful for students for years to come. A common theme to many of these concepts is the art and craft of creating games in which players are engaged by making meaningful decisions. It is the decision to move right or left, to pass versus shoot, or to develop one’s own strategy that makes the game enjoyable to the player. As a game designer, you are never entirely certain of who your audience will be, but you can enter their world and offer a state of focus and concentration on a task that is intrinsically rewarding. This detailed and easy-to-follow guide to game design is for both digital and analog game designers alike and some of its features include: A clear introduction to the discipline of game design, how game development teams work, and the game development process Full details on prototyping and playtesting, from paper prototypes to intellectual property protection issues A detailed discussion of cognitive biases and human decision making as it pertains to games Thorough coverage of key game elements, with practical discussions of game mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics Practical coverage of using simulation tools to decode the magic of game balance A full section on the game design business, and how to create a sustainable lifestyle within it




Cognitive Psychology


Book Description

Cognitive Psychology: Theory, Process, and Methodology introduces readers to the main topics of study in this exciting field through an engaging presentation of how cognitive processes have been and continue to be studied by researchers. Using a reader-friendly writing style and focusing on methodology, authors Dawn M. McBride and J. Cooper Cutting cover such core content as perception, attention, memory, language, reasoning and problem solving, and cognitive neuroscience. Updates to the Second Edition include a reorganization of long-term memory topics to improve readability, revised pedagogical tools throughout, a refreshed visual program, and additional real-life examples to enhance understanding.




The Math Gene


Book Description

If people are endowed with a "number instinct" similar to the "language instinct" -- as recent research suggests -- then why can't everyone do math? In The Math Gene, mathematician and popular writer Keith Devlin attacks both sides of this question. Devlin offers a breathtakingly new theory of language development that describes how language evolved in two stages and how its main purpose was not communication. Devlin goes on to show that the ability to think mathematically arose out of the same symbol-manipulating ability that was so crucial to the very first emergence of true language. Why, then, can't we do math as well as we speak? The answer, says Devlin, is that we can and do -- we just don't recognize when we're using mathematical reasoning.




Building Zaha: The Story of Architect Zaha Hadid


Book Description

An inspiring picture book biography about British Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, who was a pioneer in her field against all odds, told by debut author-illustrator Victoria Tentler-Krylov. The city of Baghdad was full of thinkers, artists, and scientists, the littlest among them Zaha Hadid. Zaha knew from a young age that she wanted to be an architect. She set goals for herself and followed them against all odds. A woman in a man's world, and a person of color in a white field, Zaha was met with resistance at every turn. When critics called her a diva and claimed her ideas were unbuildable, she didn't let their judgments stop her from setting goals and achieving them one by one, finding innovative ways to build projects that became famous the world over. She persisted, she followed her dreams, and she succeeded.




Outsmarting IQ


Book Description

Since the turn of the century, the idea that intellectual capacity is fixed has been generally accepted. But increasingly, psychologists, educators, and others have come to challenge this premise. Outsmarting IQ reveals how earlier discoveries about IQ, together with recent research, show that intelligence is not genetically fixed. Intelligence can be taught. David Perkins, renowned for his research on thinking, learning, and education, identifies three distinct kinds of intelligence: the fixed neurological intelligence linked to IQ tests; the specialized knowledge and experience that individuals acquire over time; and reflective intelligence, the ability to become aware of one's mental habits and transcend limited patterns of thinking. Although all of these forms of intelligence function simultaneously, it is reflective intelligence, Perkins shows, that affords the best opportunity to amplify human intellect. This is the kind of intelligence that helps us to make wise personal decisions, solve challenging technical problems, find creative ideas, and learn complex topics in mathematics, the sciences, management, and other areas. It is the kind of intelligence most needed in an increasingly competitive and complicated world. Using his own pathbreaking research at Harvard and a rich array of other sources, Perkins paints a compelling picture of the skills and attitudes underlying learnable intelligence. He identifies typical pitfalls in multiple perspectives, and neglecting evidence. He reveals the underlying mechanisms of intelligent behavior. And he explores new frontiers in the development of intelligence in education, business, and other settings. This book will be of interest to people who have a personal or professional stake in increasing their intellectual skills, to those who look toward better education and a more thoughtful society, and not least to those who follow today's heated debates about the nature of intelligence.




Teaching Numeracy


Book Description

Transform mathematics learning from “doing” to “thinking” American students are losing ground in the global mathematical environment. What many of them lack is numeracy—the ability to think through the math and apply it outside of the classroom. Referencing the new common core and NCTM standards, the authors outline nine critical thinking habits that foster numeracy and show you how to: Monitor and repair students’ understanding Guide students to recognize patterns Encourage questioning for understanding Develop students’ mathematics vocabulary Included are several numeracy-rich lesson plans, complete with clear directions and student handouts.




Guided Math Workshop


Book Description

This must-have resource helps teachers successfully plan, organize, implement, and manage Guided Math Workshop. It provides practical strategies for structure and implementation to allow time for teachers to conduct small-group lessons and math conferences to target student needs. The tested resources and strategies for organization and management help to promote student independence and provide opportunities for ongoing practice of previously mastered concepts and skills. With sample workstations and mathematical tasks and problems for a variety of grade levels, this guide is sure to provide the information that teachers need to minimize preparation time and meet the needs of all students.




Teaching Student-Centered Mathematics Access Code


Book Description

NOTE: Used books, rentals, and purchases made outside of Pearson If purchasing or renting from companies other than Pearson, the access codes for the Enhanced Pearson eText may not be included, may be incorrect, or may be previously redeemed. Check with the seller before completing your purchase. This access code card provides access to the Enhanced Pearson eText. For courses in Elementary Mathematics Methods and for classroom teachers. A practical, comprehensive, student-centered approach to effective mathematical instruction for grades Pre-K-2. Helping students make connections between mathematics and their worlds-and helping them feel empowered to use math in their lives-is the focus of this widely popular guide. Designed for classroom teachers, the book focuses on specific grade bands and includes information on creating an effective classroom environment, aligning teaching to various standards and practices, such as the Common Core State Standards and NCTM's teaching practices, and engaging families. The first portion of the book addresses how to build a student-centered environment in which children can become mathematically proficient, while the second portion focuses on practical ways to teach important concepts in a student-centered fashion. The new edition features a corresponding Enhanced Pearson eText version with links to embedded videos, blackline masters, downloadable teacher resource and activity pages, lesson plans, activities correlated to the CCSS, and tables of common errors and misconceptions. This book is part of the Student-Centered Mathematics Series, which is designed with three objectives: to illustrate what it means to teach student-centered, problem-based mathematics, to serve as a reference for the mathematics content and research-based instructional strategies suggested for the specific grade levels, and to present a large collection of high quality tasks and activities that can engage students in the mathematics that is important for them to learn. Improve mastery and retention with the Enhanced Pearson eText* This access code card provides access to the new Enhanced Pearson eText, a rich, interactive learning environment designed to improve student mastery of content. The Enhanced Pearson eText is: Engaging. The new interactive, multimedia learning features were developed by the authors and other subject-matter experts to deepen and enrich the learning experience. Convenient. Enjoy instant online access from your computer or download the Pearson eText App to read on or offline on your iPad(R) and Android(R) tablet.* Affordable. Experience the advantages of the Enhanced Pearson eText along with all the benefits of print for 40% to 50% less than a print bound book. *The Enhanced eText features are only available in the Pearson eText format. They are not available in third-party eTexts or downloads. *The Pearson eText App is available on Google Play and in the App Store. It requires Android OS 3.1-4, a 7- or 10- tablet, or iPad iOS 5.0 or later.




Teaching Number in the Classroom with 4-8 year olds


Book Description

`At last a book is written by teachers for teachers based on sound research that will generate enquiry based learning. It is essential for every classroom with lots of mathematical activities. These will purposefully engage children and allow for differentiation for those who require additional support to understand the number system and the more able children who require to be challenged. Mathematical standards in our schools will improve tremendously following these instructional activities' - Carole Cannon, Development Officer for Mathematics Recovery 'This book ‘Teaching Number in the Classroom with 4-8 year olds’ is an absolute "must have" for all educators involved in early number. Based on sound theoretical foundations, it offers a wealth of down-to-earth, tried and tested, effective approaches to teaching early number concepts and skills. It is a clearly a book written by teachers for teachers. Every single activity in the book is a nugget. Engaging with these activities will change your whole approach to teaching early number' - Noreen O’Loughlin, Associate Vice-President/Lecturer in Maths Education, Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick, Ireland. 'The authors prove it is possible to write a teacher friendly/teacher useful mathematics book that connects theory and practice. This book may become the primary teacher's "Math Bible"' - Angela Giglio Andrews, Primary Intervention Specialist and Coordinator, and Assistant Professor of Mathematics Education, National Louis University 'Teaching Number in the Classroom translates years of research into a very understandable and comprehensive approach for teaching children how the number system is structured and how to think like a mathematician. For too many years there has been the perception that children who are struggling with mathematics don't know the basic facts. The reality is that these children lack number knowledge and skills. Teaching Number in the Classroom will guide the educational professional through the steps of understanding the development of "number sense", identifying the current levels of knowledge and providing instruction that helps children use the "framework of mathematics" to solve number problems. Teaching Number in the Classroom is a thinking skills approach to mathematics. Children are taught a variety of strategies for solving mathematical problems. The teacher using this book will be able to help all children develop a strong foundation of mathematical understanding' - Carol Meland, K-3rd Grade Principal for the School District of Milton Wisconsin, USA Teaching Number in the Classroom with 4-8 year olds is an absolute "must-have" for all educators involved in early number. Based on sound theoretical foundations, it offers a wealth of down-to-earth, tried and tested, effective approaches to teaching early number concepts and skills. It is a clearly a book written by teachers for teachers. Every single activity in the book is a nugget. Engaging with these activities will change your whole approach to teaching early number' - Noreen O'Loughlin, Associate Vice-President/Lecturer in Maths Education, Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick Following the success of their previous bestselling titles, Early Numeracy and Teaching Number, the authors of this brand-new text now bring the principles and practice of their acclaimed Mathematics Recovery Programme to whole-class teaching. Central to the book is the concept of an inquiry-based approach to classroom instruction, and topics covered range from beginning number and early counting strategies to multi-digit addition and subtraction right through to multiplication and division. As world leaders in the field of Mathematics Recovery, this book's authors have drawn on their vast experience to create a user-friendly, practical guide focusing on classroom teaching. With its step-by-step approach, the text can be used as a training manual and course reference by teachers everywhere. Key features which make the book such a valuable tool include: - Real-life examples from classroom work - Teaching activities - Assessment tasks - Guidance on classroom organization and teaching specific topics - Activities for parents to do with children An invaluable resource for experienced mathematics recovery teachers, as well as all primary classroom teachers, from kindergarten level to Year three, this text will also be of use to classroom assistants and learning support personnel. Primary mathematics advisors, numeracy consultants and educational psychologists will also find it helpful.




Promoting Executive Function in the Classroom


Book Description

Accessible and practical, this book helps teachers incorporate executive function processes - such as planning, organizing, prioritizing, and self-checking - into the classroom curriculum. Chapters provide effective strategies for optimizing what Ka "12 students learn by improving how they learn. Noted authority Lynn Meltzer and her research associates present a wealth of easy-to-implement assessment tools, teaching techniques and activities, and planning aids. Featuring numerous whole-class ideas and suggestions, the book also covers the nuts and bolts of differentiating instruction for students with learning or attention difficulties. Case examples illustrate individualized teaching strategies and classroom accommodations. Fifteen reproducibles are included; the large-size format facilitates photocopying and day-to-day reference. This book will be invaluable to classroom teachers and special educators in grades K-12, teacher educators, school psychologists, and neuropsychologists.