Interactive Computer-based Game for Decision-making in Ecology

This paper describes a prototype Ecology Decision Game which has been developed for experimental use within IBM. The paper is directed to those in ecology desiring to use similar techniques in developing programs that interrelate computing, management science, mathematics, and APL for training and educational purposes. The game is implemented in two modes: an author mode, which permits an author to write his own scenario; and a player mode, which enables a person to play the game. Features of the game exploit interactive capabilities for both modes. The particular scenario written for the game treats decision-making in the environmental area of solid-waste management. Three submodules explore progressively more complicated situations that give rise to management science problems: shortest route, transportation, and maximal flow. By active and passive role-playing, and controlled and uncontrolled learning, the player is given the opportunity to use quantitative tools to refine his subjective judgments.