BBC News: Video game helps with fire drill

Video game helps with fire drill

Researchers at Durham University have modified a video game to simulate fire scenarios for training purposes.

The team used The Source Engine, the 3D game engine used to drive Half-Life 2, and created a virtual model of one of the university's departments.

Developers plan to use it to examine people's behaviour in a fire and to train people in good fire practice.

The simulator can be adapted to mimic the interior of most buildings, although modification will be needed.

Full story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/fr/-/1/hi/technology/7867861.stm

This is an interesting example of the way games can be used for practical elements of teaching. In combination with motion-based controllers such as the wiimote, they could really change the way we offer some aspects of distance education. How about a virtual chemistry lab, for instance?

Digilab improvement work 7th to 9th October 2008

Digilab users please note that the Digilab will be unavailable from Tuesday 7th to Thursday 9^th October due to improvement work being carried out.

Some cables and equipment will be replaced, making the room potentially unsafe while the work is carried out. Once the work is complete the projector and its control screen should be easier to use.

Training From America's Army Game Saved a Life

"Most people who play the United States Army's freeware FPS sit through training simulations so that they may be able to get into the action and rack up some kills. The medic skills learned in the training allow you to heal teammates in the game, but it seems that they also apply in real life situations. According to Wired and the America's Army forums, 'a North Carolina man who saw an SUV flip and roll on a highway last November was able to provide medical aid to the victims with skills he learned from the America's Army."

From Slashdot