Games as Learning Tools to Promote Environmentally Benign Systems

The goal and challenge of Shortfall is for students to learn to minimize environmental impact while maximizing profit. The auto industry manufacturing supply chain allows exploration of relationships among design considerations, supply chain management, environmental issues, research and development, and profitability. Although the supply chain in the game is simplified, students can experience the ramification of materials selection and processing decisions, i.e., technological solutions on the triple bottom line through a unique educational format. Issues involved with game development are reported along with results and reactions to the game play.