NASA tech might be used for Web gaming

WASHINGTON, April 21 (UPI) -- The U.S. space agency says educators soon might soon be able to use computer-simulation games that employ space age technologies.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration sponsored a Monday workshop to present its concept of delivering NASA content through a Massively Multi-player Online, or MMO, educational game to interested development partners.

Designed to enhance learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, the game would be designed to draw players into a synthetic environment that can serve as a powerful "hands-on" tool for teaching a range of complex subjects, officials said.

"NASA will continue to pursue innovative strategies to encourage students to improve their interest and performance in STEM and related careers," said Joyce Winterton, NASA's assistant administrator for education. "The use of online educational games can capture student interest in NASA's missions and science."

The space agency said it expects the game to appeal mainly to teenagers and college students.