Simulating the AP1000: An Educational Game to Promote Understanding of Nuclear Energy Safety and Sustainability
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Eduardo B. Farfan
Department
CCSE – Software Engineering and Game Development
Abstract
With global concerns surrounding climate change and human-driven pollution, it is understandable that many people express anxiety over the large clouds emitted from cooling towers of nuclear power plants. For individuals unfamiliar with the inner workings of these facilities, misconceptions can easily arise about the nature of the emissions and their potential impact on the environment. While numerous forms of air pollution and environmental harm stem directly from human activity, nuclear power generation remains a comparatively minor contributor, contrary to common misconceptions. Continuous innovations in nuclear technology have enhanced its potential as a clean and renewable energy source. Nevertheless, public education on the safe operation of nuclear facilities presents ongoing challenges, largely due to the perceived complexity of the subject. This project aims to provide an accessible and engaging method for educating the public about the safety and environmental benefits of nuclear energy, as well as the fundamental operations of nuclear power plants. To achieve this, an educational game has been developed that simulates the AP1000, Advanced Passive Pressurized Water Reactor. The AP1000 is distinguished by its simplified design, which relies on fewer active systems than conventional reactors. The game highlights these design features, allowing players to explore reactor operations in an interactive environment. As participants progress, they encounter educational modules that explain how the reactor functions and how it is safely managed. Gamified elements, including mini-games, encourage engagement by tasking players with maintaining stable reactor performance. Certain scenarios employ dramatized storytelling to enhance engagement, with clear disclaimers distinguishing educational simulations from real-world reactor conditions. Playtesting with high school and college students will be conducted to help assess its educational impact. By simulating the operation of an advanced nuclear reactor, this project seeks to foster greater public awareness of the technological sophistication and inherent safety of modern nuclear energy systems.
Disciplines
Educational Technology | Instructional Media Design | Nuclear Engineering | Science and Mathematics Education | Vocational Education
Simulating the AP1000: An Educational Game to Promote Understanding of Nuclear Energy Safety and Sustainability
With global concerns surrounding climate change and human-driven pollution, it is understandable that many people express anxiety over the large clouds emitted from cooling towers of nuclear power plants. For individuals unfamiliar with the inner workings of these facilities, misconceptions can easily arise about the nature of the emissions and their potential impact on the environment. While numerous forms of air pollution and environmental harm stem directly from human activity, nuclear power generation remains a comparatively minor contributor, contrary to common misconceptions. Continuous innovations in nuclear technology have enhanced its potential as a clean and renewable energy source. Nevertheless, public education on the safe operation of nuclear facilities presents ongoing challenges, largely due to the perceived complexity of the subject. This project aims to provide an accessible and engaging method for educating the public about the safety and environmental benefits of nuclear energy, as well as the fundamental operations of nuclear power plants. To achieve this, an educational game has been developed that simulates the AP1000, Advanced Passive Pressurized Water Reactor. The AP1000 is distinguished by its simplified design, which relies on fewer active systems than conventional reactors. The game highlights these design features, allowing players to explore reactor operations in an interactive environment. As participants progress, they encounter educational modules that explain how the reactor functions and how it is safely managed. Gamified elements, including mini-games, encourage engagement by tasking players with maintaining stable reactor performance. Certain scenarios employ dramatized storytelling to enhance engagement, with clear disclaimers distinguishing educational simulations from real-world reactor conditions. Playtesting with high school and college students will be conducted to help assess its educational impact. By simulating the operation of an advanced nuclear reactor, this project seeks to foster greater public awareness of the technological sophistication and inherent safety of modern nuclear energy systems.