We can no longer install our own software in our district, and I’m not sure the few games still available through online retailers would work on our newer operating systems. Unfortunately, as technology advanced, the Zoombinis disappeared from my classroom. To be completely honest, I bought a personal copy of the game, and spent many nights with my young daughter (and without her) trying to advance through the different challenges. My students were enamored with the cute little creatures who needed to be guided to their new home through various levels in the TERC/Broderbund game, “The Logical Journey of the Zoombinis.” Not only was the game fun, but the logic and problem-solving that it demanded were scaffolded extremely well, allowing students of different levels to feel successful when they played. I first discovered the magic of the Zoombinis decades ago in my 5th grade classroom. Few “education” apps pass muster for me, but I have a feeling this particular one will be on my “Gifts for the Gifted” apps list this December.
Games have their place in education, but my students know that I tend to emphasize creation rather than consumption – especially when it comes to technology.
