Election Lab

Election Lab combines math and civics in a game-based learning platform for middle and high school
students. It opens the eyes of learners to the hidden but strategic role of STEM professionals in increasingly data-driven presidential campaigns. The games present learners with 1 of several actual election scenarios from recent history—from landslides to very tight races. The game design is a hybrid of a board game and computer, leveraging advantages of both formats. The physical board game uses large, high-resolution electoral maps and manipulatives; provides a hands-on experience; and increases accessibility for English language learners and others who may not benefit from traditional presentations of math concepts. The accompanying computer speeds up play with an interactive display that updates after each state battle; automatically calculates the electoral vote totals for each candidate; and most important, captures gameplay data for later statistical analysis and discussion. The result is a novel informal learning program that uses math to understand strategies used in elections, and that uses data generated from gameplay to allow learners to think like statisticians. Elections come alive when they are played, driving history learning. Finally, experiencing an election from the point of view of a campaign strategist and understanding the convoluted mechanics of the Electoral College firsthand will engage future voters, especially for populations that have historically low voter participation.