Elevator Speech

Based on "A Place for Electric Gaming in Libraries?" by David Meyer
From the book School Libraries: What’s Now, What’s Next, What’s Yet To Come

Mr. Brown, high school teacher: Do you have a minute to discuss our plans for Tuesday's class?
Me: Sure! One sec, just finishing up here...
Mr. Brown: Oh, I see you have some computer games out...? 
Me: Yes, some students stayed after school yesterday to play some games - unfortunately they didn't pick up after themselves.  But hey, the library was getting used!
Mr. Brown: You let students play these kind of computer games here?  Can't they do that at home?
Me: Well, gaming and education can really complement each other.  While playing electronic games, students have to plan and problem solve, sometimes under time constraints.  Also, gaming is a social activity, which means students are learning about how to win and lose, fair play, sportsmanship, and teamwork.  And they get to do it with their friends!
Mr. Brown: Hmmm.
Me: You don't seem convinced.  You know, gaming also includes an element of play, in which kids just have fun while developing planning skills and problem solving.  This is rather like all those science experiments you design for those students in biology and chemistry.  And you know how students like to hang out in your classroom after school, letting their curiosity guide their learning while experimenting for themselves?  This is kind of the same thing.  In fact, there could even be some games out there that could benefit your science program.  Would you like me to look into it for you?
Mr. Brown: Well, it couldn't hurt...sure, if you have the time.  I'd be curious to see what you come up with.
Me: No problem.  Shall we talk about Tuesday's class next?