Applications of serious games in construction: the current state, classifications and a proposed process framework

Abstract

Serious Games (SG) is a pedagogical approach with technical integration of entertainment and knowledge. Even though this approach has been applied in construction, most of the studies have focused on specific areas, such as sustainability and construction safety. Therefore, a general representation of SG applications in construction is in-evident. This gap creates uncertainties and lack of directives on the know-what and know-how of SG in construction. A systematic review and detailed content analysis of 50 post-screened articles related to SG in construction/building have depicted the current state and consolidated view on the applications of SG in construction. The applications of SG were categorized into several subject matters, such as construction safety, management and fire evacuation. Further, an overall classification system for SG in construction has been established, by including elements such as user and purpose. Based on the established classification, a SG process framework was developed and the framework could serve as a reference for construction stakeholders/game developers in designing games for their needs. The main outcome from this study (classification and process framework) would benefit the academic and industry practitioners, as the establishments could guide game development in construction, particularly in empowering construction education and training.