My Take
I found that 6th and 7th grade students enjoyed the game playing.
The process of collecting "Sprite Points" to build a game can take 2 or more hours.
Therefore, not good for a classroom situation.
How I Use It
I would not use this with teaching in the classroom.
It takes too long to collect the "Sprite " points needed to build a game yourself.
Its a good at home activity for students who love to game and may want to start building a simple game themselves.
More community reviews for Gamestar Mechanic
Susan E.
Teacher
Eleanor Roosevelt High School
New York, NY
November 2, 2016
Great tool for getting started and engaging some learners who might not have been engaged before.
This software forced students in an engaging way to work through game design principles in order to win the sprites needed to make games. One student realized that he needed additional parts for the game he wanted to make and asked if he could go back to the tutorials to earn more "raw materials" for his own game making. Too often, these types of programs let students play without ever learning. Gamestar Mechanic is good at not doing this - especially in conjunction with the Mouse Create program.
Continue reading
Audra B.
Educational Technology Integration Specialist
Wheatley School
Old Westbury, NY
July 14, 2015
Cool Interactive Learning and Coding
I think that this is a beautifully rendered and thought out piece of software. I love that my students like it and WANT to use it. I also love that it helps them with critical thinking skills and it helps them adjust their thinking about other types of Coding.
Continue reading
Dianna S.
Academically Gifted Coordinator
Creech Road Elementary School
Garner, NC
March 4, 2015
Versatile gaming program that helps build design and writing skills.
The tool meets many 21st Century skills. It can assist students with engagement. The program does require the teacher to be familiar with basic design techniques, but there are several lesson plans already developed that can assist some that may be hesitant.
Continue reading