Role-Play Games as a Tool for STEM Career Inspiration and the Development of Scientific Possible Selves
Abstract: This paper describes ways that online simulations and serious games may impact the knowledge and motivation of middle and high school students with the ultimate goal of inspiring science, technology, engineering and mathematical (STEM) careers. Several games will be reviewed as well as the underlying theory of possible selves that influenced them. Recent research suggests the potential for the career role-play afforded by these games can increase students’ interest in science careers, while also improving their science knowledge. Games may foster the formation of scientific possible selves in ways not possible through traditional classroom exposure. The need for a broader examination of this phenomenon in a sustained and experimentally rigorous fashion is advocated.