I was recently searching for GIS resources when I came across an old document I had about the use of simulation games in Geography. I haven’t used them for a long while (since my PGCE) so thought I’d take a look at what is out there now and share some useful ones with you.
Suitable for Key Stage 2 and 3.
Each disaster starts with a comic strip style introduction before a question is asked and a decision is to be made. Depending on the option chosen, students earn points.
The game takes students through a range of scenarios and solutions, giving them insight into the hazard and management.
Suitable for Key Stage 3 and 4.
This game is provided by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. Through a range of scenarios and levels students develop an understanding of the risks posed by natural hazards.
Students can choose between tsunamis, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes and floods.
Once a hazard has been selected players can choose a scenario from numerous regions of the world allowing students to compare countries of different stages of development.
The game then takes the player through a scenario in which they have to respond through careful planning and preparation. With limited funds students have to consider how to spend the money effectively.
Suitable for Key Stage 4 and 5.
This is an interactive game created by the Department for Energy and Climate Change that allows students to explore scenarios to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions.
Students explore supply and demand as well as energy security, air quality and costs in this simulation. It provides effective insight into future energy challenges.
Suitable for Key Stage 3 and 4.
This simulation aims to raise awareness of the issues surrounding flood policy and management. During the game students are put in control of flood policy in the UK for three years. They must decide on how much money to spend on defenses, where to build houses and how to keep the public informed all whilst remaining in budget.
They are required to weigh up the pros and cons of flood management against the potential impacts.
Climate Bathtub Simulation
Suitable for Key Stage 3, 4 and 5.
A very simple interactive simulation game, the climate bathtub simulation teaches several principles regarding the dynamics of the global carbon cycle and climate change. It helps students to understand how changes in carbon dioxide emissions will affect levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Energy Saving Game
Suitable for Key Stage 2
In this game students explore the home for potential energy efficiency improvements and answer quiz questions to lower a house’s energy use.