Welcome

Welcome to Jeff Ertzberger's Game Template and Utilities web site. The materials located here are designed to enhance education through the use of technology.

A recent study found that close to 60% of teachers would like to use video games in their classrooms (Future Lab Press Release, 2006). In another study, teachers and parents recognized that video games can support valuable skill development such as: strategic-thinking, planning, communication, application of numbers, and negotiating skills (McFarlane, Sparrowhawk, & Heald, 2002). With so much desire amongst parents and teachers to use video games in the classroom the question is why are so few teachers actually using video games in their classrooms?

In my study of Eastern North Carolina teachers, I found that teachers indicated the biggest deterrents to the use of video games were the expense of video games, the lack of time to create video games, the lack of relevance to curriculum, and lack of the needed technology.

When asked what would help them integrate the use of video games, teachers surveyed responded that games aligned to curriculum, pre-made template games, reliable technology, and hands on training would assist them in the use of video games. An overwhelming majority stated that they would be willing to use template games in their classrooms if they were available.

Thus the rationale for this web site. I have tried to create templates for games, using Microsoft Office, that teachers can download and quickly modify to match any curriculum.

I hope to create more and more of these templates, and create an online worskhop on the use of these games. All this and more I hope to do in the future. So if you like these games, check back often and sign up for my games alert email newsletter.

All materials found on this site may be used for non-profit educational settings. All rights for any trademark or copyright protected items in the presentations are maintained by their respective owners.

Dr. Jeff Ertzberger