Games, Simulations and Virtual worlds Can Provide Effective Learning Experiences

June 15, 2010 - PRLog -- eLearning experts, game developers, educators and corporate leaders are among the hundreds of people who will converge this week at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology for a two-day event devoted to showcasing how games, simulations and virtual worlds can provide an effective learning experience.  

The 2010 Learning and Entertainment Evolution Forum (LEEF) is set for June 17-18. The only event of its kind in Central Pennsylvania is drawing attendees and presenters from around the nation.

The University is the perfect venue for the annual event as its high-tech learning environments are ideal settings for attendees to take part in demos featuring  new and experimental technologies.  The event will also feature focused instructional workshops, one-on-one time with innovators and entrepreneurs in the exhibitors’ area, and lots of opportunities for networking with a diverse array of attendees.

Keynote speakers during the two-day event include Mike Cuffe, Vice President, Learning University of Farmers, Claims, and Jerry Heneghan, Managing Director, Virtual Heroes Division, Applied Research Associates.

Another highlight of LEEF 2010 are the dozen case study presentations exploring and analyzing innovative uses of technologies in which learning and entertainment goals converge so attendees gain insights that can be put to use as they develop new learning initiatives to achieve business and educational goals.  Led by industry experts and peers, the two-hour case study sessions explore best practices for adopting games and simulations by explaining the design and implementation decisions, identifying processes for evidence collection and proof of ROI,  and providing hands-on experimentation with the game solution.

Organized by the 2010 Technology Educator of the Year and Harrisburg University faculty member, Andy Petroski, the University has become the ideal host for the forum since it is pursuing innovative approaches to games and learning for performance through its Learning Technologies Master of Science program and its Center for Advanced Entertainment and Learning Technologies.

Limited seating is available.  More information about LEEF is found online at www.LEEF2010.net, by calling  717.901.5167 or e-mailing  LEEF@HarrisburgU.edu

Founded in 2001 to address Central Pennsylvania’s need for increased opportunities for study leading to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields,  Harrisburg University is an innovative and ambitious private institution that produces graduates who provide increased competence and capacity in science and technology disciplines to Pennsylvania and the nation. Harrisburg University ensures institutional access for underrepresented students and links learning and research to practical outcomes. As a private University serving the public good, Harrisburg University remains the only STEM-focused comprehensive university located between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

For more information on the University's demand-driven undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs in applied science and technology fields, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu.

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Founded in 2001 to address Central Pennsylvania’s need for increased opportunities for study leading to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, Harrisburg University is an innovative and ambitious private institution.