Game appreciation through student designed games and game equipment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the processes through which a cohort of 50 fifth-grade students designed a batting and fielding game in which they were also required to make the equipment used in that game. Through extensive observations and interviews, six major themes were generated which demonstrated that the pathway to a final game is different for both boys and girls, and is also influenced by the students' previous history and skill levels. While girls were considered more as planners and boys as more spontaneous in their approach to game design, it was noted that all students were able to develop some basic understanding of how game rules both enable and constrain certain tactics and skills. The students also developed an appreciation that the equipment used in games has a significant influence of the methods of play.