DRIVING THE BUS

Because alternate reality games (ARGs) are so time- and cost-intensive to produce, educational ARGs must be designed for reusability. We present a design framework for reusability centered on the objectives of adaptability, extensibility, and replayability. We then illustrate the use of this design framework with a case study of our ARG The Tessera, a ghost story designed to teach teenagers computational thinking skills and dispositions. By including an online multiplayer leveled structure and in-game communication for adaptability, an extensible participatory narrative, and the ability to replay levels to collaborate with and coach peers, The Tessera enables players to “drive the bus” of their own learning.