Clark Aldrich

Educational Innovator and Author

Clark Aldrich is a prominent figure in the field of educational innovation and simulation-based learning. He is the Managing Partner of Clark Aldrich Designs, a company that specializes in creating educational simulations and "Short Sims" - short-form experiential learning tools.1

Background and Education

Aldrich grew up in Concord, Massachusetts and received his Bachelor's degree in Cognitive Science from Brown University in 1989.2 His educational background and early experiences, including summers at the Chewonki Foundation, helped shape his innovative approach to learning and education.

Career Highlights

Gartner: Aldrich founded and led Gartner's e-learning coverage as Research Director and Learning Core Topic Leader from 1997 to 2000.1
SimuLearn: He served as Lead Designer at SimuLearn from 2001 to 2003, where he created the award-winning "Virtual Leader" simulation.1
Clark Aldrich Designs: Since 2001, Aldrich has been the Managing Partner of his own company, designing and building educational simulations for a diverse range of clients including corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.1

Contributions to Education

Aldrich is known for:

Pioneering work in educational simulations and serious games
Advocating for interactive learning experiences inspired by computer games
Developing the concept of "Short Sims" for more effective skill-based learning
Authoring six books, including "Unschooling Rules"
Launching education's gamification segment through his research and projects2

Recognition

Aldrich has received numerous accolades for his work, including:

Being called a 'guru' by Fortune Magazine and a 'maverick' by CNN
Receiving awards for "Best of the Year" products
Holding a U.S. Patent for his work
Being featured in top industry publications and news outlets3

His expertise has been sought by various institutions, including the Army War College, Naval War College, and FBI's Quantico. He has also held Top Secret clearance for his work on the board of the National Security Agency (NSA).

Clark Aldrich continues to be a influential voice in reimagining education for the 21st century, focusing on preparing students and employees for leadership roles in a skills-based economy through innovative learning methods.3