Knowledge: Digital Zoo

Abstract

This chapter looks at how computers change what it means to think and thus what it means to learn. It begins by looking at Digital Zoo, a game developed by researcher Gina Svarovsky at the University of Wisconsin.¹ In the game, players become biomechanical engineers and design virtual creatures. Along the way, they learn about science and engineering. The computer plays a central role in this process, as players learn fundamental physics concepts in collaboration with the machine.