News Summary
iCivics and the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation have launched ‘Investigation Declaration,’ a free online game aimed at educating students about the Declaration of Independence. Integrating interactive elements, the game not only teaches historical concepts but also promotes civic engagement. Recently awarded the 2025 GEE! Award, it supports both English and Spanish learners and provides teachers with tools to track student progress, making it an invaluable educational resource.
Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia — iCivics has teamed up with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation to launch a free online educational game titled “Investigation Declaration.” The game is specifically designed to educate students about the Declaration of Independence, highlighting its linkage to Enlightenment ideas and the inspiration it provided for democracy movements in Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
The game follows modern educational trends that underscore the importance of interactive technology in effective learning, especially in subjects like history. By integrating puzzle and strategy elements, “Investigation Declaration” engages students through a learn-as-you-play format, making the educational experience both enjoyable and informative. This gamified approach is available in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a wider audience.
Recently, the game was awarded the 2025 GEE! Award in the Formal Games category by Field Day, which commended it for its design, engagement level, and gameplay quality. Judges praised its capacity to embody the principles of effective game-based learning, solidifying its status as a valuable resource for students and educators alike. The game also offers teachers the ability to monitor student progress, enhancing classroom integration and participation in initiatives like the Civic Star Challenge, which rewards classrooms with prizes.
Mia Nagawiecki, the Senior Vice President of Education at Colonial Williamsburg, highlighted the organization’s commitment to using innovative methods to expand history education. iCivics, founded in 2009 by the late Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, has consistently focused on promoting civic education through engaging gaming experiences.
The gameplay of “Investigation Declaration” is reminiscent of popular online games like Roblox and Fortnite. Players take on the role of “Agent 6“, whose mission is to restore files that relate to freedom and democracy, files that have been tampered with by a fictional international crime organization. The narrative spans 100 years after the Declaration of Independence, delving into the dissemination of vital concepts such as natural rights and state sovereignty, thereby emphasizing the global repercussions of American democratic ideals.
The game effectively merges iCivics’ extensive experience in educational gaming with the historical depth provided by Colonial Williamsburg. With inspiration drawn from historian David Armitage’s book, “The Declaration of Independence: A Global History,” the game positions the U.S. Declaration as a document of worldwide significance. The goal of iCivics with this project is to adapt its teaching methods to align with the preferences of a new generation of gamers, while simultaneously imparting complex democratic concepts.
“Investigation Declaration” signifies a noteworthy evolution in the gaming approach of iCivics, stepping away from conventional gameplay to enhance civics education. Teachers can utilize comprehensive support materials that accompany the game, allowing for deeper engagement and discussion surrounding the pivotal historical themes explored within the game. Targeted primarily at middle and high school students, this strategic educational tool focuses on developing critical thinking skills and providing engaging historical perspectives.
By harnessing the capabilities of game-based learning, iCivics and Colonial Williamsburg aim to create a more interactive and effective educational experience for students, fostering a greater understanding of pivotal historical events and democratic principles.
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Additional Resources
- Virginia Mercury: Unveiling History with iCivics
- Wikipedia: Declaration of Independence
- WY Daily: Free Game on Declaration’s Impact
- Google Search: Historical Impact of the Declaration of Independence
- Daily Press: Educators Appreciation Event at CW
- Google Scholar: Game-Based Learning
- WY Daily: New Online Game on Revolution’s Eve
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Critical Thinking
- Virginia Mercury: Labor Union Lawsuit
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