Presenting information pertaining to dynamics in terms of aesthetics

22Feb09

This suggested method for reinforcing learning in field-dependents is only part of the solution. The evaluation UI must be complemented by mechanics, dynamics and aesthetics that present the salient points of each dynamic in clear terms. In other words, the designer needs to carefully consider how the user will understand the structuring of the information provided. For [...]

Filed under: Cognitive theory, Field-dependence/independence, Game design, Gender-inclusive game design   |  Leave a Comment

Friendly advice: Field-dependent user performance evaluation

20Feb09

My hypothesis is that field-dependent videogame users find themselves demotivated by the often unambigiously negative and unnuanced feedback provided by most videogames. My suggestion is that simply awarding points or a grade for good performance and presenting the player with a fail-state when the player’s ability does not match the difficulty or complexity of the [...]

Filed under: Cognitive theory, Field-dependence/independence, Game design, Gender-inclusive game design   |  Leave a Comment

The social learner: privileging field-dependent learning styles via meta-narratives

13Feb09

The previous discussion of field-dependent learning styles grew out of its shell in attempting to discuss field-dependent learning styles, game design and motivation for media consumption. A lot of the points raised in the previous attempt were interesting, particularly the discussion of what actually constitutes “social orientation”. Is social orientation real-life social situations, or portrayals [...]

Filed under: Cognitive theory, Field-dependence/independence, Game design   |  Leave a Comment
Tags: Cognitive theory, Game design

Forests, not trees: field-dependent learning styles in games

11Feb09

Witkin’s cognitive theory of field dependence-independence describes a high-level cognitive control which determines the mode of interpretation and organization of the perceptual field and working memory. My assumption is that field-dependence/independence is related to other constructs in sociology and cognitive theory, namely male reason and androcentrism, and that modern videogames privilege not only male perspectives [...]

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Tags: Cognitive theory, Game design, sociology

Pragmatism, not idealism?

03Feb09

I’m puzzled, apparently because I trust the natural sciences too much. You see, I’m writing a dissertation on subverting male reason in game and interface design patterns and I’m stumped as to what framework for interpreting gender construction I’m really arguing in favour of. On the one hand, we’ve got the radical feminist framework derived [...]

Filed under: Game design, Gender-inclusive game design   |  Leave a Comment
Tags: Cognitive theory, evolutionary biology, evolutionary psychology, feminism, Game design, sociology