002EdGames

If both players pick the same object, there is a tie. This is a zero sum game theory game (the only equilibrium is in mixed strategies).

The game can be played with skill if the game extends over many sessions, as a player can often recognize and exploit the non-random behavior of an opponent. Then it is up to a player to determine the best competing strategy. In this case, when playing against the computer, the computer can create random strategies, each strategy lasting over many sessions. The game supports probability and statistics curriculum, data analysis, decision trees, strategic choices, etc.

Example 1: Classical case: both players randomly choose rock, paper, or scissors (probability of 1/3). Long-term prediction is that there will be a tie. This can be tested by data collection and analysis. Assuming both players can choose randomly this is a fair game.

Example 2: One object case: One of the players always chooses one object, say scissors, while the other stays with a totally random strategy. Who wins in the long run?

Example 3: Different probabilities: One of the players (for example the computer) chooses his probabilities. Can the second player (the student) recognize the first player’s pattern of play and choose his strategy/probabilities to beat the first? Explorations, data analysis and decision trees help students choose the right strategies.

·	Rock wins over scissors
·	Paper wins over rock
·	Scissors wins over paper