Educational Game Design: Simulations for Urban Planning and Exploration

Games and simulations are powerful tools for understanding complex systems like cities, communities, and environments. This course introduces you to the foundational principles of designing educational games that make urban planning and social exploration accessible and engaging. You will progress from understanding core simulation theories to drafting your own educational game concepts, learning how to model real-world urban challenges into playable, educational experiences. In this course, you will: Understand the core elements of educational game design and simulation theory; Analyze urban planning concepts and translate them into interactive gameplay mechanics; Design balanced simulation loops that represent real-world social and environmental systems; Apply modern user experience principles to keep educational simulations intuitive and accessible; Create detailed game design documents tailored for educational and exploratory games; Practice drafting simple simulation logic and decision-tree systems through written exercises. The course starts with essential terminology and the history of educational simulations before guiding you through system mapping, mechanics design, and player feedback loops. You will study practical design patterns and complete structured written exercises to build your first simulation blueprint. This course is designed for beginners, educators, and aspiring game designers with no prior programming or design experience. Start designing impactful simulations that educate and inspire today.