Who is Brian?

Brian Nelson is an Assistant Professor of Educational Technology at Arizona State University.

What does he do?

Brian's current research centers on design and assessment issues related to highly immersive, multi-player educational games. Through several funded research projects, Brian is investigating:

• If/How cognitive processing-based design principles can be used in the creation of educational games to lower learner cognitive load, increase engagement, and promote learning.
  • SURGE: physics simulation games designed to help students conceptualize and explicate tacit understandings of physics gained through gameplay. (NSF, 2008-2010, $450,000)
  • SAVE Science: immersive game-based assessments of science inquiry and content skills, incorporating visual and auditory signalling design approaches to reduce learner cognitive load. (NSF, 2008-2013, $2,700,000)
• Best practice models for embedding real-time assessment into immersive eduational games. Looking at ways of weaving individualized assessment of on-going conceputal change into the narrative fabric of games to invisibly evaluate student learning while keeping the gameplay fun.
  • 21st Century Assessment: an exploration of models and methods of embedding assessment into digital media-based learning environments. (MacArthur, 2007-2010, $1,800,000)
  • Our Courts: immersive game-based environment to help learners understand the U.S. Court system. This project headed by Justice Sandra Day O'Conner, and is a joint research effort between ASU and Georgetown Unversity. (MacArthur, 2008-2009, $500,000)