Engaging Learning Experiences Research Articles

From frustration to fulfilment

Transaction analysis, the process of discerning which accounts are impacted (either increased or decreased) by a given transaction, is a fundamental accounting principle. While proficiency in this concept is vital for introductory accounting students, it poses a significant challenge for many. We addressed this hurdle using Excel and Excel VBA to develop a fully automated Journal Entry Learning Object (JELO) spreadsheet designed to aid first-year accounting students in grasping the intricacies of analyzing business transactions. Grounded in cognitive load theory (CLT), our spreadsheet based JELO provides a user-friendly interface that helps students develop their skills without becoming overwhelmed. Cognitive load theory, pioneered by John Sweller, suggests that learning is optimized when instructional materials reduce unnecessary cognitive load, allowing students to allocate their cognitive resources efficiently toward understanding and mastering the task at hand. CLT distinguishes between three types of cognitive load: intrinsic, extraneous, and germane (Sweller, Ayres, & Kalyuga, 2011). Intrinsic cognitive load refers to the inherent difficulty associated with a specific instructional topic (Sweller, J. 2010). In transaction analysis, the intrinsic load is naturally high due to the complexity of understanding the impact of transactions on various accounts. To manage this, JELO has three tiers of transaction questions. Students are allowed to progress to more complex transactions only after demonstrating proficiency with the lower levels. Extraneous cognitive load is generated by inefficient presentation of information to learners (Paas & Sweller, 2014). JELO minimizes extraneous load through its intuitive and interactive design. By providing clear instructions, a logical interface, and eliminating unnecessary information, JELO ensures that students can focus on the essential aspects of transaction analysis without being distracted by irrelevant information. Germane cognitive load refers to the mental effort required to create schemas and integrate new information into existing knowledge structures (Sweller et al., 2011). JELO enhances germane load by offering scaffolded and immediate feedback. This feedback is designed to reinforce correct responses and guide students through their errors with hints and explanations, facilitating deeper cognitive processing and better schema construction. Our goal was to make skill acquisition enjoyable and, more realistically, to reduce the pain of learning transaction analysis. The JELO offers an alternative to traditional “drill and practice” methods by providing an easy-to-use, interactive learning tool that dynamically adjusts the difficulty of its questions to match the student's skill level. This adaptive learning approach ensures that students are continually challenged just enough to promote learning without becoming overwhelmed. Additionally, JELO's feedback mechanism aligns with CLT principles by providing immediate positive reinforcement and corrective guidance. By doing so, it helps students build confidence and competence in transaction analysis, leading to a more effective and engaging learning experience. By incorporating principles of cognitive load theory, JELO ensures that students are neither under-challenged nor overwhelmed. This careful balancing of students’ overall cognitive load facilitates a more effective learning environment, fostering both proficiency and satisfaction in mastering transaction analysis.

Improving Students' Vocabulary Mastery Through Digital Storytelling Technique at XI MIA2 Class of SMA Negeri 7 Tual

This research aims to improve the mastery of English vocabulary of grade XI MIA2 students at SMA Negeri 7 Tual through digital storytelling techniques. The type of research used is Classroom Action Research (CAR) research which is carried out in two cycles to determine the significant improvement in students' vocabulary mastery after the application of this method. Data collection techniques use tests, questionnaires, observations, documentation. Data analysis was carried out descriptively on all research data. The results of the data analysis showed that the proportion of students who met the minimum completeness criteria increased significantly from the first cycle to the second cycle. The positive response of students to the use of Digital Storytelling in English learning also confirms this finding. Thus, it can be concluded that the Digital Storytelling technique is an effective approach in improving vocabulary mastery and providing a more engaging and interactive learning experience for students

Predicting EFL University Students' Acceptance of Mobile Assisted Language Learning through the UTAUT2 Model

This study used the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) model to examine the factors influencing the acceptance of MALL by the Moroccan EFL students of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University. For this purpose, 150 undergraduate EFL students participated in the research. The survey questionnaire adapted from (UTAUT2) model showed the influence of the following factors on students' behavioral intention to use MALL: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social impact, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation, and habit. The findings highlighted the importance of perceived usefulness and ease of use, the need for institutional support, engaging learning experiences, and promoting MALL use as a habit. This study provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers seeking to optimize MALL adoption and improve language learning outcomes.

Mixed reality strategies for piano education

Head-mounted mixed reality interfaces, in which a user perceives a seamless blend of real, virtual or remote content, have great potential in a wide range of educational contexts. In this paper, we explore the use of mixed reality (MR) in piano education. We begin with a review of previous examples of virtual and mixed reality for piano teaching and learning, identifying four major categories of functionality: remote teaching, learning to read musical notation, providing alternative notation systems to Western musical notation, and enhancing users’ understanding and experience of music. Following this review, we present an application designed to demonstrate the use of MR for facilitating remote student-teacher piano lessons. Additionally, hand-tracking enables real-time, bi-directional visualization of both the student’s and teacher’s hand movements while playing, which is a crucial communication channel in piano instruction. We also present the Piano Theory Hub, an interactive area for independent learning and practice designed to compliment remote instructions. The Piano Theory Hub uses MR to provide spatial in situ explanations and exercises on notes, intervals, scales, and chords. User studies were conducted to evaluate both remote and solo aspects of the application. The first study with 10 participants revealed a strong sense of immersion and co-presence with the teacher during remote lessons. Trials also revealed that, in addition to virtual hands, visual highlighting of key-presses was found to improve visualisation of the remote users’ play. The second study, with 15 participants found the Piano Theory Hub to be helpful for beginners and some intermediate players, with feedback suggesting improvements in user experience and highlighting the limitations of replacing traditional piano teachers. Our experiments demonstrate that MR can be successfully employed for the following strategies for piano education: hand interaction coaching, flexible virtual hand and piano visibility, augmented feedback including key highlighting, gamified learning elements, and flexible teacher positioning options. Overall, the findings suggest that mixed reality holds promise as an effective tool for remote piano learning and music education, offering immersive and engaging learning experiences.

Analysing the Impact of Gamification Techniques on Enhancing Learner Engagement, Motivation, and Knowledge Retention: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach

This study investigates the impact of gamification techniques, including Kahoot!, Classcraft, and Badgeville, on learner motivation, engagement, and perceptions of learning effectiveness and enjoyment in online learning environments. Employing a quantitative research approach, the study utilizes Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyze the relationships between gamification elements and learner outcomes, framed by Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Data collected from a survey of 169 academics across varis fields reveal that gamification techniques, such as leaderboards, badges, points systems, and challenges, significantly enhance learner engagement, with an average increase of 25% observed. Rewards, incentives, and competitive challenges boost both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, leading to a 30% improvement in learner performance. Despite a slight negative perception regarding gamification's impact on learning effectiveness, a 20% increase in perceived enjoyment underscores its overall positive influence. Knowledge retention significantly impacts learner engagement, perceived learning effectiveness, and enjoyment, with a correlation coefficient of 0.65 between retention rates and engagement levels. These findings highlight the importance of balancing competitive elements to optimize motivation, effectiveness, and enjoyment while maintaining a supportive learning environment. The study provides actionable recommendations for designing gamified e-learning environments that effectively integrate gamification elements to enhance engagement, motivation, and knowledge retention, offering evidence-based guidance for educators aiming to create engaging and effective online learning experiences.

Pengembangan Aset Wisata Edukasi Kebudayaan Flashcards Berbasis Augmented Reality untuk Pembelajaran Seni dan Budaya TK Laboratorium

The development of cultural educational asset flashcards based on Augmented Reality (AR) for art and culture learning at TK Laboratorium aims to enhance children's interest and understanding of local arts and culture. This program integrates AR technology with educational flashcards to create an interactive and engaging learning experience. Methods include the design and development of AR flashcards, technical training for teachers, and effectiveness evaluation through user feedback. Results show a significant increase in children's engagement and understanding of art and cultural materials. The implementation of this program is expected to support the development of innovative and effective art and culture learning at the early childhood education level.

Upaya Meningkatkan Efektivitas Pembelajaran Melalui Kreativitas Mengajar Guru Pada Mata Pelajaran IPS Terpadu

This study aims to investigate efforts to enhance the effectiveness of integrated social sciences subject learning through teachers' teaching creativity at SMP Negeri 2 Tilamuta, Boalemo Regency. It employs a qualitative approach with descriptive qualitative method. Data collection techniques used in this study are observation, interviews, and documentation. Meanwhile, the data analysis techniques include data reduction, data display, data validity checking, and conclusion. The findings of this study indicate that teachers of integrated social sciences at SMP Negeri 2 Tilamuta face various constraints in creating creative learning. These constraints include time limitations, domination of teaching methods that still rely on the use of teaching media such as textbooks, and suboptimal classroom management. However, teachers of integrated social sciences subject have shown efforts to overcome these constraints, including the use of various types of teaching media such as videos, presentations, and interactive games which have helped create more engaging and varied learning experiences for students. Effective classroom management has also proven to be an imperative factor in creating a conducive learning environment where every student feels heard and valued. Thus, the implementation of teacher creativity in integrated social sciences subject learning at SMP Negeri 2 Tilamuta, Boalemo Regency, denotes that collaboration among teachers, students, and the school environment is the key to the success of learning that can have an impact on enhancing learning effectiveness.

Strategi Profesionalisme Guru PAUD Abad 21 dalam Menstimulasi Kemampuan Membaca Anak Usia Dini

21st-century ECE teachers face challenges in developing effective strategies to stimulate early reading abilities in children. This study aims to explore the strategy of 21st-century early childhood education (ECE) teachers' professionalism in stimulating early reading skills in young children focusing on the effectiveness of these strategies in enhancing children's interest and reading abilities. The study employs a descriptive qualitative research method, with two teachers from groups B1 and B2 of TK Piri Nitikan as the subjects. The findings highlight that the professionalism of 21st-century ECE teachers, particularly in using conventional picture storybooks and digital flipbooks, positively contributes to enhancing early reading skills. Conventional picture storybooks aid in developing fine motor skills and basic language abilities in children, while digital flipbooks offer a more interactive and engaging learning experience. Combining conventional and digital approaches in 21st-century ECE professionalism provides a strong foundation for improving early childhood reading abilities.

The Role of Multi-sensory Learning Activities on Iraqi Preparatory School Pupils' Communication

The research aims to identify how multi-sensory learning activities affect the communication growth of Iraqi preparatory school pupils as well as how those pupils' communication skills evolve in the classroom. Multi-sensory learning activities engage multiple senses (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, tactile) to enhance information processing and retention. By incorporating diverse sensory stimuli, these activities create rich and engaging learning experiences that cater to various learning styles. The research is hypothetical in that, in the posttest for Visual Learning Pupils, posttest for Auditory Learning Pupils, posttest for Kinesthetic Learning Pupils, and posttest for Tactile Learning Pupils communication test, The mean scores of the experimental groups and the control group differ statistically significantly. In the current research, 100 fifth-stage pupils were chosen during the academic year 2023–2024 from Aghalar Preparatory School for Boys. Every group is equal in terms of age and parents' level of education. The researcher statistically analyzed the data collected from the four post-test outcomes using one-way, two-way, three-way, and four-way ANOVA (analysis of variance) to gauge the pupils' post-test communication. Multi-sensory learning activities are more successful than using the traditional approach for communication, The results demonstrate a statistically significant difference in mean scores between the experimental groups and the control group. Concluding remarks, suggestions for more research, and recommendations complete the research.

Grounded synergy: addressing the challenge to co-construct meaningfully collaborative, quality assured, transnational education (TNE) provision

The number of students studying through transnational educational (TNE) arrangements at UK higher education institutions (HEIs) has grown considerably over the last decade. Universities UK (2022), drawing on 2020/21 data, reported that 162 HEIs engaged in TNE arrangements with 228 countries. TNE provision encompasses diverse delivery methods, including dual awards, joint awards, double degrees, and franchised or validated arrangements. HEIs grapple with enormous operational complexities in delivering partnership course arrangements. One fundamental challenge is delivering partnership courses that reflect meaningful collaborative work between host and partnership institutions (producing more engaging, creative, and inclusive learning experiences), while also ensuring parity of high-quality educational provision between the institutions. This session was intended to facilitate discussion around how partnerships can navigate these complexities, build a climate of respectful and open dialogue, and successfully deliver high quality, innovative environments for all learners. In doing so, it centred around three core questions: How can HEIs involve partners in more meaningful, sustainable ways in educational provision? How might TNE work help HEIs understand their own internal partnerships more clearly? Where could or should TNE provision in higher education go from here?

DIGITAL AND NON-DIGITAL GAMES IN YOUNG LEARNER EFL CLASSROOMS AT WARTIME IN UKRAINE

The present study aims to investigate the gaming habits of young learners (YLs) in the process of learning English as a foreign language and examine the role non-digital or conventional and digital games play in teaching English to young learners. It examines both conventional games used in the classroom and digital games played outside of formal instruction. Reasons for playing these two types of games were elicited from the children who were additionally asked about the preferences concerning playing games alone (solitary play) or with peers (collaborative play), in the English classroom or beyond it, i.e. preferred contexts for gameplay (classroom vs. home). The survey was conducted in Ukraine in a particularly challenging period in February and March, 2023, marked by the aftermath of COVID-19 and the subsequent declaration of martial law in the country. An online questionnaire was designed to collect data from our participants aged 10-13. The questionnaire was then administered to the children, and a total of 175 completed questionnaires yielded valuable results that formed the foundation of the study’s analysis. Findings revealed that in the current war-torn Ukraine most frequently preference is demonstrated for conventional games which are played within the structured environment of the English classroom. These games were perceived by YLs as a means offering them to alleviate the burdens of everyday stress while simultaneously facilitating lively and engaging peer interaction in English. Conversely, digital games were preferred for home-based play primarily due to their inherent entertainment value, essentially bringing them pleasure and enjoyment. One of the most crucial implications to be gleaned from this research lies in the urgent need for educators to actively integrate age-appropriate and educationally sound digital games and applications into their existing EFL curricula. By strategically incorporating these digital tools, educators can effectively supplement formal language instruction, fostering a more multifaceted and engaging learning experience for their young learners.

Cyberverse: A Game-Based Learning Application for Cyber Security

Abstract: Games are becoming more frequent in educational settings, and various technologies have been established to meet the needs of designing an education as a game. Aside from education, game-based learning is rising in popularity in various areas, including professional development and networking sites. By incorporating gaming components into the training process, educational platforms that use games will increase student engagement, motivation, and productivity. One of the most defining characteristics of game-based learning environments is their ability to produce innovative and engaging learning experiences (Gee, J. P. 2020; Hamari, J., et al 2021). Games-based learning integrates instruction with authentic gaming experiences. Scientific and popular interest in severe goal games has increased tremendously (Huang, W. H.-Y. et al. 2021; Kapp, K. M. 2020; Zhang, Y. et al. 2023). Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks, damage, or unauthorized access. With the increasing reliance on technology and the internet, the significance of cybersecurity has grown tremendously. It encompasses various measures, including: Threat Prevention, Incident Response, Data Protection, Awareness and Training and Compliance (Kshetri, N. 2021; Stallings, W., et al 2022; Kaspersky, E. 2020). Cyber security occupies a major part of society today. Cyber security educational games are a popular form of hands-on exercises that use gamification to train information security skills and enhance cyber security awareness. The objectives of the game application are to (1) create awareness of the necessity of the importance and function of cyber security such as password security, phishing awareness, identity theft, encryption, and network security among others. (2) to distinguish between the various topics of cyber security while playing the game application (3) to determine the evaluation tool to use in the assessment of the cognitive abilities of gamers. A quantitative research design was used to determine the process of the application while the Agile model is commonly used in game development due to its iterative and flexible nature. Technical Aspect which is the ISO 25010 and Game Aspect Method was used for the Evaluation with 60 respondents. The study can identify the genders of the respondents as male and female. The mechanics of the game can make the gamers use and test their knowledge about cyber security. Evaluation results of gamer respondents show the average mean of both males and females are interpreted as "Strongly Agree". This means that they strongly agree that cognitive abilities are used when playing the application. Meanwhile, evaluation results of technical respondents' average mean for both males and females are interpreted as also "Strongly Agree". This means that they strongly agree on all the technical aspects of the application. Overall, evaluation results of all respondents whether gamer or technical are interpreted as "Strongly Agree".

Best practices in creating partnerships for transformative engaged learning experiences at a small, liberal arts, Lasallian institution

AbstractAll undergraduate students at Saint Mary's College of California, a small, private institution, are required to complete an engaged learning (EL) course or experience for graduation. This graduation requirement was established to provide students with the opportunity to learn in and from the community; an important value from the principles of the Liberal Arts and Catholic Lasallian traditions that inform the College's pedagogy. The social justice and community engagement center on campus called the Catholic Institute for Lasallian Social Action (CILSA), establishes EL partnerships with nonprofit organizations, school districts, campus departments, and other higher education institutions throughout California for EL courses, internships, place‐based work, and research projects. We value the expertise of our partners and view them as co‐educators in creating transformative learning experiences for nearly 600 students annually. In this article, we will share our process in sustaining community partnerships, our scaffolding engagement efforts, and best practices for collaborating with partners.

5.B. Round table: Improving digital health literacy in the era of generative artificial intelligence

Abstract Improved access to generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms and technologies has prompted greater awareness of their potential application in health communication. This workshop will examine this potential alongside the practical challenges and risks of using generative AI in health communication in the broader context of the European Union AI Act. The workshop will explore the implications for the concept of digital health literacy in ways that reduce or mitigate existing digital health inequities across and within Europe. Chatbots and conversational AI platforms such as ChatGPT have opened opportunities for people to find, understand and use health information in significantly different ways. Public health professionals are already using these technologies to simplify health and medical information and to make it available in different languages. AI assisted technologies are also being used to create interactive and engaging learning experiences that provide the public with real-time feedback and insights about their health as well as prompting and reinforcing actions they can take to improve health. These developments have fundamental implications for our understanding of digital health literacy and the methods we use to support people in optimising the potential benefits of AI. Different communities in Europe vary considerably in their - access to digital technology, - skills to discriminate the accuracy and reliability of information, and - trust and responsiveness to what digital technologies have to offer. Building these fundamental digital health literacy skills is a critical priority if we are to ensure that all people benefit equitably from the potential offered by AI. Those of us engaged in improving health literacy have an important role to play in influencing the future direction of AI in health communication, including and especially by engaging in research and development activities that build evidence of effectiveness and support the development of digital health literacy skills in parallel with the expansion of access to AI-assisted digital technologies. The workshop chairs will provide introductory and summary remarks, moderate the panel discussion, and facilitate audience participation in the workshop. The individual panel members will make 3-minute introductions to key issues from different perspectives on the emerging practical applications of generative AI in health communication as well as the implications for strategies to improve digital health literacy in different population groups. The panel is made up of individuals in different roles and at different career stages who can offer complementary perspectives on these issues. Following the presentations, the co-chair will present some follow-up questions to the Panel before engaging directly with the workshop attendees for an open but structured discussion scheduled to last for 30 minutes of the Workshop. Key messages • We will examine how generative artificial intelligence has opened new both new opportunities and risks in the ways people find, understand and use health information. • We will consider how we can optimise the benefits of generative AI in a way that is equitable through the development of digital health literacy within and between communities in Europe. Speakers/panelists Catherine Jenkins London South Bank University, London, UK Diane Levin-Zamir Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel Christopher Le Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Innlandet, Norway Miguel Telo de Arriaga Direção-Geral da Saúde, Lisbon, Portugal

Effectiveness of Abstract – Visual – Concrete Approach in Enhancing Students’ Level of Conceptual Understanding and Mathematical Self-Efficacy

This study was designed to transform mathematics instruction into a more engaging and practical learning experience, emphasizing real-world applications. The primary objective was to enhance conceptual understanding and mathematical self-efficacy among Grade 11 senior high school students in Statistics and Probability during the 2021-2022 academic year's second quarter. The findings demonstrated that mathematical self-efficacy positively correlates with conceptual understanding, with high-efficacy students showing greater confidence and positive attitudes toward mathematics. The Abstract-Visual Representation-Concrete (A-V-C) instructional approach proved effective in teaching Pearson product moment correlation and regression analysis. This method progresses from abstract concepts through behavioral modeling to exploratory concrete experiences, enabling students to develop comprehensive understanding through structured, hands-on learning.

Martial Arts in Physical Education and Student Self-Regulation

This study explores the impact of martial arts education within the physical education curriculum, aiming to assess its effectiveness in enhancing students' cognitive, affective, and physical self-regulation, while also identifying areas for improvement. Quantitative data from student surveys indicated that martial arts education has a positive effect on self-regulation across all domains. However, qualitative responses revealed significant challenges, including accessibility issues, the need for a more practical and engaging curriculum, and insufficient support from schools and facilities. Based on these findings, a comprehensive program was developed to address these concerns. The program focuses on curriculum enhancement, increasing accessibility and engagement, improving facilities and resources, supporting instructor development, and establishing ongoing assessment mechanisms. The program’s implementation plan is structured across six phases, ensuring a strategic approach to achieving the intended outcomes. The study concludes that while martial arts education holds considerable potential for holistic student development, its full impact is currently limited by various barriers. By addressing these challenges through targeted interventions, educational institutions can maximize the benefits of martial arts education, fostering not only physical fitness and discipline but also cultural appreciation and emotional resilience among students. The proposed program serves as a roadmap for schools to enhance martial arts education and better align it with educational objectives, ensuring a more engaging and impactful learning experience.

The Development of Interactive Learning Media for Islamic Religious Education in Elementary Schools in Indonesia

In today’s digital era, conventional teaching methods often fail to captivate students, making interactive media a promising solution. Interactive media combines visual, audio, and participatory elements, providing a more engaging and effective learning experience. The development process includes analyzing student needs and curriculum, selecting appropriate technology, creating interactive content, conducting trials, and evaluating effectiveness. This study uses a qualitative approach. Primary data sources in qualitative research are the words of the interview results obtained from primary data including respondents from teachers and students in SDMT Ponorogo. Data collection is carried out by means of snowball sampling. The data collection technique in this study is through observation, in-depth interviews and documentation. The data obtained during the study, both primary and secondary data are then processed and analyzed using Miles and Huberman model. The validity test of data in qualitative research includes tests, credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. The article highlights the benefits of interactive media, including increased student motivation, improved understanding of abstract religious concepts, and the development of critical thinking skills. This approach not only modernizes religious education but also ensures that students remain interested and actively involved in learning. Through proper testing and implementation, interactive media can significantly enhance the quality of Islamic Religious Education at SDMT Ponorogo. The developed media, which consists of animated videos, interactive quizzes, and educational games, is able to make the learning process more engaging and increase student engagement.

Examining the Efficacy of a Physical Board Game for Geometric Transformations

A group of Hong Kong secondary school mathematics teachers collaborated on the creation of a physical board game, “War of Transformation”, specifically designed to aid Hong Kong Secondary 1 students in applying transformation (i.e. translation, reflection, and rotation) of 2D figures, a topic in the local mathematics curriculum. The objective of the study was to delve into the game design and player experience from the viewpoint of the students as indicators of the effectiveness of the board game, comparing these elements across different abilities. A mixed-method design was adopted, from which data was gathered utilizing questionnaires and a focus group. The study involved a total of 102 junior form students secondary school students from three districts in Hong Kong, with a selected group of five students and three school teachers participating in interviews. The questions for the questionnaire and interviews were derived from the Model for the Evaluation of Educational Games. Quantitative data were used to provide an overview of student experiences, while qualitative data from the interviews provided further insights of the results. The findings revealed that students valued the game’s design and had a positive gaming experience, comparing these elements across different abilities The design of the board and the use of online teaching aids were found to significantly enhance gameplay and learning. This study highlights the potential of thoughtfully designed game-based learning in fostering effective and engaging learning experiences.

Limes (the Roman Frontier): Developing a Video Game for History Learning

The use of gaming technologies in education holds great promise to provide engaging learning experiences. Whereas video games have been successfully used to foster learning in several school subjects, the current understanding of the potential of video games for history learning is still limited. This paper details the development of Limes, a 2D top-down educational game created in Unity and rendered in pixel art. The game targets 5th/6th grade secondary school students and is set in the third century AD in southern Germany, a period characterized by political and social instabilities. Limes digs into the complex relations between the Roman Empire and the Alemanni tribe, one of the most powerful Germanic tribes of this period. The player can experience this pixelated world through the eyes of an Alemanni child, who forms a friendship with a Roman centurion. The unfolding narrative places the young protagonist in the precarious balance of peace and conflict, and the player needs to navigate the diplomatic tensions of the era. The gameplay consists of five levels, including primary missions and optional secondary missions which unlock special features (e.g., puzzles, quizzes). Limes incorporates a variety of game mechanics, ranging from running and interacting with characters to stealth missions, throwing rocks, and horse racing. These dynamics are integrated into the historical narrative of the game, enriching the player's experience. The game development process combined insights and methods from multiple disciplines, including game-based learning, educational, social, and cultural psychology, education sciences and pedagogy, and history education. Moreover, the game capitalizes on Unity’s wide array of development tools, which provide extensive customization possibilities, and employs pixel art, facilitating an engaging environment while maintaining a cost-conscious development process. Initial tests and expert feedback highlight the promise of Limes as a game that leverages historical accuracy and innovative educational tools to foster a deeper understanding of Roman history. Next steps include empirical studies with students to test the game's effectiveness (e.g., in improving interest in and knowledge of Roman history).

Learning from Designing a Board Game for Policy Thinking in Computer Science

Technology does not exist in a vacuum, but is influenced by society and at the same time shaping it. In order to educate future computer scientists to be able to assess and create technology in a conscious and responsible manner, we provide first-year Computer Science (CS) students with an introductory course on different ways of thinking about CS by offering them a transdisciplinary view of the field. As we continuously strive to use engaging teaching methods to foster long-lasting interest for the topics of the course, as well as enhancing students’ learning experiences, we have introduced a unique game-based learning pipeline: In a game design course, advanced CS students design non-digital games that address various topics from the introductory course. These games are later played by first-year CS students, who are reflecting on the content and their experience as a part of their course assignments. In order to learn from the first iteration of this process, we analyse one of the games created, in particular its design and the educational objectives intended by the game designers, including the students’ feedback. We found that the game was perceived to be good in achieving learning outcomes; however, it scored even higher in terms of being an interesting and entertaining game. Overall, we conclude that the game was successful in creating an engaging learning experience, demonstrating the potential for game-based learning with non-digital games. This case study also highlights the importance of creating a suitable environment for game-based learning approaches to enhance the educational effects and utilise individual strengths of educational games, providing inspiration and groundwork for future research.