Towards the successful game-based learning: Detection and feedback to misconceptions is the key

Abstract

In recent years, digital game-based learning models with suitable teaching strategies have proved to be of great educational benefit. Two-tier tests are an effective diagnostic tool and can be used to diagnose misconceptions of students. This study therefore designed an educational game with two-tier testing mechanism to detect the misconceptions of students in the game and provide different kinds of feedback for the misconceptions. In addition, we used lag sequence analysis to analyze the behavioral patterns of students exhibited during gameplay to understand the influence of different types of feedback content and reading time on learning effectiveness. The results indicate that digital game-based learning with two-tier testing and general digital game-based learning exert no significant effects on learning effectiveness. However, we did find out from the results of the lag sequence analysis that students who are willing to spend time reading feedback for the misconceptions are likely to achieve better learning effectiveness. Furthermore, incorporating two-tier testing into digital games can effectively reduce mathematics anxiety and help learners learn well.