# CIVIC-FA Track A: A Disaster Multiplayer Online Game (DMOG) to Enhance Emergency Preparedness in the Midwest

> **NSF 04002526DB NSF STEM Education** · Iowa State University (IA) · $700,000

## Abstract

The objective of this project is to support research on creating, implementing, and testing a novel online serious game on emergency response. Iowa State University (ISU) and Polk County Emergency Management (PCEM) in Iowa collaboratively develop the Disaster Multiplayer Online Game (DMOG). Emergency response is a complex process, involving multiple organizations and decision makers with different roles and responsibilities, objectives, and resources. DMOG intends to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency management (EM) training by engaging key decision makers within an online computer game. Each player in DMOG assumes a role (e.g., county emergency manager, law enforcement, fire department, emergency medical services). DMOG then simulates a sudden onset of a Midwest disaster and forces players to grapple with the uncertainty and trade-offs in their actions. Important research questions are answered, informing the next generation of online games for EM applications. The plan is to expand DMOG to other types of disasters and geographic locations.

The learning objectives of DMOG are to: (i) increase knowledge about roles in EM, (ii) enhance EM decision-making competencies, and (iii) foster collaboration and communication among EM decision makers. The goal of creating and evaluating DMOG is to empower decision makers with the skills to prioritize among competing demands and allocate resources during a high-pressure, high-stakes situation, thereby enhancing the

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2527470
- **Awardee organization:** Iowa State University (IA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** DQDBM7FGJPC5
- **PI:** Cameron A MacKenzie
- **Primary program:** 04002526DB NSF STEM Education
- **All programs:** CIVIL INFRASTRUCTURE, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Broaden Particip STEM Resrch, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES, CIVIL INFRASTRUCTURE
- **Estimated total:** $700,000
- **Funds obligated:** $700,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2527470

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2527470, CIVIC-FA Track A: A Disaster Multiplayer Online Game (DMOG) to Enhance Emergency Preparedness in the Midwest. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2527470. Licensed CC0.

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