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Date of Graduation
Spring 2013
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Department of Integrated Science and Technology
Abstract
A culturally-anchored board game simulator named ERAMAT! was created in cooperation with faculty members and members of the Maasai community and then piloted with US students and members of Maasai communities in southern Kenya during the summer of 2012. The game provides an alternative to a computer-based simulator, and hence provides a culturally credible simulation of the system dynamics associated with an accelerating boom/bust cycle of drought and hunger in the region. Factors driving the phenomena include greatly increased population densities, pastoralist cultural values, evolving pastoral practices, the ebb and flow of the semi-arid environment in which Maasai pastoralists live, and political and ecological pressures. The game encourages deeper understanding of these dynamics for pastoralists and non-pastoralists alike, and can generate conversations leading to insights on effective strategies for reducing the impact of the inevitable periods of low rainfall. This thesis reports on the underlying dynamics, the game design, and the results of the pilot. ERAMAT’s rules, symbols and language attuned to Maasai core values and pastoral praxis allowed players to engage in conversations about past experiences and outcomes, as well as explore alternative strategies for livestock and livelihood survival.
Recommended Citation
Mayiani, Jacob Loorimirim, "A board game simulator for promoting system thinking for sustainable pastoralism among Maasai in Southern Kenya" (2013). Masters Theses, 2010-2019. 262.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/master201019/262
