How Games, Simulations and Virtual Worlds Change the Learning Experience and the Nature of Work

Dec. 6, 2010 - PRLog -- Games and simulations are becoming mature, proven approaches for employee training and development. These approaches are no longer part of the learning experience, they ARE the learning experience. Serious game solutions include advanced considerations like character development, narrative, user interface, game play, game balancing, level design, feedback mechanisms and flow. Today's game and simulation solutions are focused on impacting the level of performance and engagement in the workplace.

The Learning and Entertainment Evolution Forum (LEEF) at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology will explore how games, simulations and virtual worlds change the learning experience and the nature of work itself. The event will explore implementation best practices, design and development considerations, and innovative examples of how games, simulations and virtual worlds are evolving as the work solution.

The event will take place June 16-17 at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. Register now for half-price! At just $295, this is the most affordable opportunity to attend this high-impact program!

LEEF is unique because it provides learning professionals with in-depth, hands-on experience with innovative game solutions, enables meaningful networking with peers and industry thought leaders, explores actual learning solutions with project stakeholders, and features up-and-coming technologies.

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 annual 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.

Using case studies, exhibits, keynotes and other hands-on learning opportunities, the annual LEEF event showcases how games, simulations and virtual worlds are used  from leadership and program management, to emergency evacuation or electrical safety.   Attendees at past LEEF events enjoyed presentations of case studies from IBM, DAU, Applied Research Associates, Forio, the US Naval Academy, Centrax, Novonics and others who are overcoming challenges and implementing effective solutions with games, sims and virtual worlds!

Additionally, LEEF 2011 is expected to 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. The annual event is ideal for training and development professionals,  e-learning designers and developers, educators and instructors, and game designers and developers.

More information on becoming a presenter or exhibitor at LEEF 2011, or to sign up for updates, please email LEEF@HarrisburgU.edu , call 717.901.5190 or go online to www.GoLEEF.com.

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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Established 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.