The New Era of Teaching: Using Video Games to Teach Macroeconomics

Abstract

This paper discusses how the commercial video game Civilization VI can be used as an experiential learning tool in the economics classroom. The game simulates the progress of civilizations over the past 6000 years of human history and can be used to cover principles of economics, economic history and economic growth theory. Students experience and learn the importance of natural resources, human capital, physical capital, technology, trade, government stability, property rights, geography and openness to trade to economic growth and development. The paper discusses specifically how the game relates to specific economic topics. The game is available in Mac, IOS, Windows, PS4 and most other platforms.