PeterPandemic: A Serious Game for Pandemic Management

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Educational Technology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for understanding disease transmission and management strategies.
• Educational research indicates that game-based learning significantly benefits student engagement and knowledge acquisition.
• Existing educational tools may not adequately address the complexities of pandemic scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel web-based serious game designed for pandemic education.
• To leverage game-based learning principles to improve students' comprehension of pandemic dynamics.
• To provide an accessible and interactive platform for learning about pandemic preparedness and response.

Main Methods:

• Conceptualization and design of a web-based serious game focused on pandemic situations.
• Integration of epidemiological principles and public health management concepts into game mechanics.
• Development of interactive modules simulating disease spread and intervention strategies.

Main Results:

• The proposed serious game offers an engaging platform for learning about pandemic management.
• It provides a simulated environment for students to explore the impact of various interventions.
• The game facilitates a deeper understanding of epidemiological concepts and public health decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Web-based serious games represent a promising approach for pandemic education.
• This tool can enhance students' preparedness and understanding of public health crises.
• Further development and implementation can support broader public health literacy initiatives.