When a console game becomes CSCL: Play, participatory learning and 8-bit home computing in India

This paper presents evidence describing how a single player typing game, designed for use on a low-cost (~US$10) computing platform, was utilized as a computer-supported collaborative learning activity. The group computer interaction was found to consistently induce verbal language experiences that extended the potential educational utility of the highly limited 8-bit computing platform. Building on these experiences, we describe some of the design implications for promoting participatory learning with video games, particularly in lowincome households and developing contexts.