Abstract:
Although learning-by-doing is one of the most effective
teaching and learning methodology, its application to
some disciplines, such as history, is difficult even when
using complex simulation environments. One possible
solution is to combine learning-by-doing principles with
gaming elements to create immersive and interesting
virtual environments. Unfortunately, the level of
programming required to create such environments
makes it prohibitive for most educators. We describe the
Graphical Interactive Fiction Toolkit, GIFT, system we
have created that allows educators and writers to easily
create interactive stories. While programmers will still
be required for complex interactive environments, we
believe GIFT can lower the entry bar and allow much
richer set of interactive environments to be produced.
