Simulating the dynamics of subsistence fishing communities: REEFGAME as a learning and data-gathering computer-assisted role-play game

REEFGAME is a computer-assisted role-playing game that explores the interactions

among management strategies, livelihood options, and ecological degradation in subsistence

fishing communities. The tool has been successfully used in the Philippines and

a variety of student workshops. In the field, REEFGAME operated as a two-way learning

tool, helping local fishers better understand their collective impacts on the marine

ecosystem and providing researchers with insights into fisher livelihood strategies. This

demonstrates the game’s ability to serve as powerful springboard for social learning

and discussion among stakeholders, while providing useful scientific insights into decisionmaking

processes. Although not specifically designed for the purpose, REEFGAME has

also been used in the university setting to facilitate student engagement and demonstrate

a range of social and ecological concepts.