Recently I have been using the computer game Myst III: Exile as part of my writing lessons. Myst is an interactive computer game where you explore virtual worlds and try to solve puzzles in the process. The idea for using Myst in school comes from the award winning Tim Rylands and I can certainly attest to the success of his idea. The scenery, or graphics, in the game are amazing and it is a fantastic visual experience for children. As you explore the virtual world children are encouraged to speak about the world they see, the sounds they hear and the feelings that are evoked. Children then use their experience to write on the events they encountered in the game. I have found the results amazing and cannot believe the quality of some of the writing that the children come out with. I am asked daily in the classroom “Are we doing Myst today teacher?” Even the so-called weaker children love Myst and actually enjoy the writing process that comes with it.
I purchased the 4 disc game from Ebay for a small price and it can be found on-line or in shops for between €10 – €20.
For those who are not computer game experts walk-throughs of the game are available on-line so that you can’t be caught out by the children.
