An option for younger learners studying history and economics.
Community Review for Great Depression Simulation
My Take
Overall, it seemed poorly designed and difficult to use. The text was soft or fuzzy, possibly because they are trying to make the background paper look aged. As discussed above slider buttons were overly sensitive and difficult to use precisely. When the house, car or refrigerator icons were clicked to buy them, nothing happened.
I don't believe I would use this product in my classroom as its benefits were outweighed by its design issues.
How I Use It
I asked 11th grade students to evaluate the app. They was using a Samsung Galaxy as it is an Android App. They were tasked with spending their paycheck during the Great Depression and paying for a home, car or refrigerator, as well as saving or investing the remainder. They stated the slider bars were too sensitive and made it difficult to select amounts to invest or put in the bank. Students also couldn't buy a house, car or refrigerator as directed.
If it worked without flaws, it would be beneficial for students in upper elementary and middle school. I would use it to emphasize the need to save and invest, especially in periods of recession. It should be used after learning about the depression and discussing economic terms such as recession, depression, scarcity, etc. It does have a brief introduction to the Great Depression, but it is difficult to read the bottom paragraph as the "Proceed" button over the background text.