Game-based Learning Approach Research Articles

A game-based learning approach to sleep hygiene education: a pilot investigation.

Sleep hygiene education (SHE) consists of environmental and behavioral practices primarily intended to reduce sleep problems. Currently considered ineffective as a stand-alone treatment, the manner in which the education is typically delivered may be ineffective for the acquisition of new knowledge. The purpose of this study was to determine if a more engaging teaching medium may improve the efficacy of sleep hygiene education. This study examined the use of game-based learning to teach SHE to individuals with sleep problems. 35 participants played the SHE games for 30 days. Differences in pre- and post-state anxiety and sleep quality measures were examined. Participants had significant improvements in sleep quality and state anxiety after using the app for 30 days, although scores for the majority of patients remained elevated. This pilot investigation provides initial evidence for the efficacy of a game-based approach to SHE.

Game-based learning in metaverse: Virtual chemistry classroom for chemical bonding for remote education

AbstractVirtual classrooms based on the metaverse or virtual reality are useful and effective for imparting basic chemistry concepts. Interactive and immersive environments can effectively teach fundamental chemistry concepts, such as chemical bonding and formulas, thereby making these otherwise abstract and intangible ideas more accessible and understandable. With the outbreak of Covid-19, e-learning platforms have also been developed for chemistry education. However, these platforms are unable to make learning chemistry interactive and enjoyable. Therefore, there is a need to motivate students to learn basic chemistry concepts in an immersive and interactive environment. In this paper, we propose an immersive virtual reality-based Virtual Chemistry Classroom for Chemical Bonding (VC3B) to facilitate the learning of chemical bonding and formulas through a game-based learning approach. It includes two different games for learning chemical bonding and formulas. In the first game, molecule construction, students reconstruct the structure of molecules by rearranging the atoms in order to learn about chemical bonding. In the second game, chemical formula, students compose the chemical formula of a given compound to help them memorize chemical formulas. The study, conducted on 90 middle school students, employed a randomized controlled study design, dividing participants into three groups. Each group learned about chemical bonding and formulas through three different mediums. After conducting the experiment, the students were given a questionnaire to evaluate the usability of VC3B. The results of the study were positive, with participants finding the VC3B to be more interactive than traditional book and online lecture methods. Participants were also motivated to learn and enhance their knowledge of chemistry.

Lingue e culture aumentate.

As an emerging technology, Augmented Reality (AR) demonstrated several advantages in education. However, the implementation of AR for plurilingual and intercultural education is still at an early stage and more studies are needed. Therefore, the research presented here aims to evaluate the impact of the implementation of AR on the development of adolescent students’ plurilingual and intercultural competence, as well as on their motivation. To achieve the aims described, several educational activities centered on authentic stories of migrants were developed through a Game-Based Learning approach and implemented. The stories were drawn from the DiMMi project, which collects autobiographical testimonies related to the themes of migration. Results showed how the integration of AR in plurilingual and intercultural education consists of an effective strategy to bring adolescent students closer to contemporary migration issues. Moreover, it enables the development of citizen and cultural awareness, as well as plurilingual and digital skills and competences. Furthermore, the study demonstrated the potential of AR to stimulate students’ interest in the topics covered by the activities implemented.

Designing Digital Educational Games by Integrating Teaching Process into the Technology Platform of Entertainment Games

This study presents a method for designing Digital Educational Games (DEGs) that integrates educational content with entertainment game technology. The purpose is to create engaging learning experiences by leveraging theories of learning, emotion, and motivation. Methodology includes selecting popular entertainment games and incorporating educational objectives to enhance both learning and gameplay. This design has been applied into teaching Soft Skills according to the game based learning approach. This application was evaluated to find the effectiveness of this proposal and the way to improve the scenario of the “The Energy Bus Journey”. Results indicate this approach increases student engagement and learning efficacy. The conclusion suggests that while promising, further optimization is needed to perfect the balance between educational content and gaming enjoyment.

Applications and Learning Outcomes of Game Based Learning in Education

Game-based learning (GBL) is considered the most engaging means of learning and brings several benefits as regards the learning outputs. Game-based learning is applied in all different educational stages from pre-school education to tertiary education, and workplace. This review study discusses and extends previous findings by organizing the application of GBL approaches in different educational stages and presenting the main learning outcomes. The review study collects and analyzes 104 scientific papers ranging from 2013-2021. The benefits and limitations of GBL are also discussed in the paper, while different types of games including augmented reality (AR) approaches are considered. According to the findings, in primary and secondary education, GBL demonstrates a positive impact on learning outcomes and engagement, enhancing students' understanding of complex concepts and fostering real-world application of learned knowledge. While GBL in tertiary education facilitates deeper understanding, critical thinking, and skill development, its implementation requires careful design and evaluation aligned with learning objectives. The study also explores various types of GBL games, including memory, simulation, interactive, quiz, puzzle, strategy, and reality-testing games, each tailored to different educational objectives and subjects. Furthermore, Augmented Reality (AR) in GBL shows promise across subjects but faces challenges like technical limitations, training needs, privacy concerns, potential distractions, and a lack of comprehensive research on its efficacy. Overall, while GBL demonstrates considerable potential in enhancing education, its successful implementation requires careful consideration of age-appropriateness, varied game types, and integration of emerging technologies like AR.

GAME-BASED LEARNING ENHANCING LEAST LEARNED COMPETENCIES IN APPLIED SOCIAL SCIENCES

In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, incorporating innovative and engaging teaching methods is crucial for fostering effective learning outcomes. Teacher needs to ensure that learners can cope up with classroom challenges especially in a class composed of learners with heterogeneous level of understanding for a particular subject is strenuous to handle since they have different expectations and abilities. By leveraging the power of gamification, the study aims to investigate the effectiveness of game-based learning in facilitating the acquisition and retention of critical competencies that have historically proven to be more challenging for learners. The game-based learning intervention will consist of interactive and immersive educational games specifically designed to address the identified least learned competencies. The games will be implemented as supplementary learning tools, integrated into the existing applied social sciences curriculum. Through an extensive review of existing literature and empirical evidence, the study aims to provide insights into the impact of game-based learning on enhancing skill development, critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and other competencies specific to the applied social sciences domain. Hence, the findings of this study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on game-based learning and its effectiveness in enhancing least learned competencies in applied social sciences. In addition, it will inform educators, policymakers, and curriculum developers on the potential benefits and implications of integrating game-based learning approaches within the applied social sciences domain. Ultimately, this study aims to promote more engaging and effective pedagogical strategies that foster comprehensive skill development in students, preparing them to excel in the dynamic and complex world of applied social sciences.

Barriers to the Digital Game-Based learning at Secondary level In Punjab: Perceptions of Pre-Service Teachers

Teachers’ main aim is to make the students learn with interest by adding daily life activities and examples to get long-lasting effects on their learning. Introducing digital games in the classroom is a new innovative approach that makes it easy for students to learn new skills and knowledge. However, teachers are not frequently using this approach in their classrooms. The present quantitative descriptive study has explored the barriers that hinder teachers from using digital game-based learning approaches. Pre-service teacher perceptions were sought in the teacher training colleges, i.e., district campuses of Quaid-i-Azam Academy for Educational Development in Punjab. After checking its validity and reliability, a self-constructed closed-ended online questionnaire was used for data collection. The alpha value of the questionnaire was .825. All the pre-service teachers studying in the district campuses of Quaid-i-Azam Academy for Educational Development, Punjab were the population of the study. The online survey remained open for about one month, and 384 responses were received from pre-service teachers throughout the Punjab province. Data were collected based on five-point Likert type scale. Collected data was put into SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 25 and descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to get the study results. Major findings include that availability of insufficient resources, teachers’ lack of skills and use of digital tools, and difficulties in managing technology in the classroom are the main barriers to implementing digital game-based learning in the public secondary schools of Punjab. The study benefits stakeholders, policymakers, and decision-makers and has added new knowledge in education.

Examining and Comparing the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Serious Games and LEGO Serious Play for Learning Scrum

Significant research work has been undertaken related to the game-based learning approach over the last years. However, a closer look at this work reveals that further research is needed to examine some types of game-based learning approaches such as virtual reality serious games and LEGO Serious Play. This article examines and compares the effectiveness for learning Scrum and related agile practices of a serious game based on virtual reality and a learning activity based on the LEGO Serious Play methodology. The presented study used a quasi-experimental design with two groups, pre- and post-tests, and a perceptions questionnaire. The sample was composed of 59 software engineering students, 22 of which belonged to group A, while the other 37 were part of group B. The students in group A played the virtual reality serious game, whereas the students in group B conducted the LEGO Serious Play activity. The results show that both game-based learning approaches were effective for learning Scrum and related agile practices in terms of learning performance and motivation, but they also show that the students who played the virtual reality serious game outperformed their peers from the other group in terms of learning performance.

Unlocking Mathematical Success: A Qualitative Case Study on Grade 10 Learners’ Challenges and Triumphs with the DAMATH Strategy

Mathematics remains a challenging subject for students, necessitating innovative teaching strategies to enhance engagement and understanding. This study investigates the role of the DAMATH strategy, a game-based learning approach, in boosting academic achievement and cognitive engagement among Grade 10 learners. Using a constructivist theoretical framework, the study explores the issues and concerns students face when implementing DAMATH, their coping mechanisms, and the insights gained. Qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with six purposively selected participants reveal three main challenges: lack of understanding and strategic knowledge, the complexity of mathematical operations, and the pressure of problem-solving to achieve victory. Effective coping strategies identified include consistent practice, focusing on mathematical fundamentals, and collaborative learning. Students reported improvements in cognitive and problem-solving abilities, as well as enhanced mathematical skills, through regular DAMATH gameplay. The study concludes that DAMATH is an effective educational tool that promotes cognitive growth, critical thinking, and mathematical proficiency. Moreover, by integrating DAMATH into the curriculum, educators can enhance students’ learning experiences, making mathematics more accessible and engaging. These insights inform future educational strategies and suggest areas for further research on game-based learning and its broader impacts on student motivation and engagement.

STEM-PT Traveler, a game-based approach for learning elements of the periodic table: an approach for enhancing secondary school students’ motivation for learning chemistry

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted students' motivation for learning. As students return to schools in the post-pandemic era, their motivation for learning continues to deteriorate due to challenges in adapting to the new educational norms. This study aimed to enhance the motivation of secondary school students towards learning chemistry, particularly during the period when their motivation has tended to be low upon returning to regular schooling after the pandemic. To achieve this objective, the researchers developed and implemented a self-designed game-based learning approach called STEM-PT Traveler during lessons focused on the periodic table. STEM-PT Traveler incorporated elements of enjoyable learning and play, introducing an interdisciplinary perspective to periodic table lessons. The effectiveness of STEM-PT Traveler in improving motivation was compared to an alternative student-centred, non-game-based learning approach using an explanatory mixed-method design. Two intact classes from a public secondary school were randomly assigned to two groups—one group utilized the game-based learning approach (N = 45), while the other group employed the non-game-based approach (N = 46). The multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) findings from pre-test and post-test questionnaires administered before and after treatment revealed significant differences in overall motivation and in the subscales of intrinsic motivation, career motivation, and self-efficacy. Non-significant differences were observed for grade motivation and self-determination. Qualitative interviews conducted with both groups after the treatment provided additional insights into the questionnaire outcomes. Specifically, during the interviews, students highlighted that the game facilitated engagement with the periodic table elements due to their intrinsic value. Additionally, the game provided a career perspective and instilled a belief that excelling in chemistry is instrumental. This study suggests that a game-based approach is an effective alternative to the predominantly used teacher-centred teaching of the periodic table and advocates for the integration of interdisciplinary perspectives into lessons on the Periodic Table.

Analisis Pendekatan Pembelajaran Bahasa Indonesia Berbasis Game dalam Kurikulum Merdeka: Sebuah kajian Literatur

Approach is an effort to achieve a goal and become successful. In the world of education, an approach can be defined as a plan, method, or series of activities aimed at achieving certain educational goals. A learning approach can be defined as a plan that includes a series of activities aimed at achieving certain educational goals. This research aims to find out how effective the game-based Indonesian language learning approach is in the independent curriculum. Background This research begins with the need to understand in depth the use of game-based learning approaches in the Independent Curriculum in Indonesian language subjects. Literature study method Studying previous research through literature study which is used to provide an understanding of previous results, both successes and challenges in implementing a game-based learning approach. This helps in research planning to take advantage of positive experiences and overcome obstacles that may arise.

Enhancing motivation and academic performance through gamified digital game-based learning methodology using the ARCS model

ABSTRACT This study assessed the effects of an educational intervention grounded in gamified game-based learning on attention, relevance, confidence, satisfaction, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, as well as academic performance, utilizing the ARCS motivational design model. This study involved 384 undergraduates across three physical activity and sport sciences courses. The experimental group, consisting of 287 students, was further divided into competitive (n = 142) and noncompetitive (n = 145) subgroups, while the control group comprised 97 students. Data collection was conducted using the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ), Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (IMMS), and academic performance assessments. The findings of this study revealed significant disparities in the ARCS dimensions between the intervention and control groups. The experimental groups displayed notably lower scores in attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. The intervention had a significant impact on students’ perceptions of intrinsic goals and task value, and it exerted a moderate influence on extrinsic goals. No statistically significant impact on conceptual knowledge was observed. These findings suggest that integrating the gamified digital game-based learning (DGBL) approach with the ARCS model can effectively enhance students' motivation, academic performance, and practical knowledge in higher physical education.

Team knowledge sharing: A game-based learning approach

Introduction. Business simulation games that have been widely used in teaching in recent years have been proven to help students develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.Aim. The current research aims to assess how team cohesion and knowledge sharing attitudes relate to organisational climate and knowledge sharing (KS) intentions.Methodology and research methods. Through the use of a game-based team learning environment, this study examined the students’ attitudes and intentions regarding KS. As part of the study, questionnaires were also administered to 202 students at business colleges in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Bootstrapping estimation was used to test all hypotheses using a structural equation model (SEM).Results. The research findings showed that (1) organisational climate positively influenced team cohesion, as well as KS attitudes positively influencing KS intentions; (2) organisational climate was positively related to KS attitudes and intentions; (3) team cohesion was positively associated with KS attitudes and intentions; and (4) a significant relationship exists between organisational climate and KS intentions through the mediation of team cohesion and KS attitudes.Scientific novelty. The study helps to examine the relationships between the four variables that have been done before.Practical significance. The research findings suggest that teachers should establish grading standards and encourage students to express their opinions. In addition, it is crucial to create a good atmosphere and enhance cohesion in the class so that they can trigger students’ KS attitudes and intentions.

Assessing EFL Students’ Performance and Self-Efficacy Using a Game-Based Learning Approach

Educational technology plays a major role in today’s learning as it offers significant advantages in delivering learning content, classroom communications, and assessing learners. Assessment is a cornerstone in modern and formal education and is particularly necessary for tracking progress, measuring knowledge or achievement, and planning future educational steps. This study investigates the effects of using an online game-based learning (GBL) approach in students’ assessment in terms of their performance and self-efficacy in English as a foreign language (EFL) learning. A quasi-experiment was conducted on intermediate school-level students, who were divided into two groups, namely control and experimental. Each group underwent an English language test conducted through a Google Form and a role-playing game developed to mimic the functionality of an assessment tool. The results indicate that the performance of the experiment group was neither affected positively nor negatively using the GBL assessment tool. On the other hand, the results also show that using such a tool has positively affected students’ self-efficacy levels.

Keefektifan Pembelajaran Berbasis Game untuk Meningkatkan Minat dan Motivasi Belajar Fisika: Metaanalisis

This study aims to analyze the impact of interest and motivation levels in learning physics using a game-based learning approach. To achieve this goal, we conducted a meta-analysis by reviewing 20 journals from various sources, focusing on the effect of interest and motivation levels on physics learning outcomes after applying game-based learning methods. The results showed overall effectiveness with a summary effect of 64%. The study concluded that Fighter Plane War was the most effective game, while Angry Bird Game was less effective. This journal explores the effectiveness of game-based learning in increasing physics learning interest and motivation in students, involving the implementation of interactive games specifically designed to be fun and engaging. The research method involved an experimental group and a control group to compare learning outcomes as well as students' emotional responses. The research findings showed a significant increase in physics learning interest and motivation in the group using game-based learning. The practical implications of this research can help develop innovative learning strategies to improve the quality of physics education in various educational contexts.

The influence of game-based learning media on academic English vocabulary learning in the EFL context

Despite the growing interest in game-based learning (GBL) over the last two decades, the influence of Augmented Reality-based GBL on English vocabulary growth is still not well understood when compared with other forms of media, especially with regard to academic English vocabulary. This quasi-experimental study with 90 Chinese English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) university students investigated the efficacy of GBL supported by three forms of media (paper, digital, and AR) for learners’ academic English vocabulary growth by measuring their immediate recall and long-term retention. The study involved one experimental and two control groups, each learning 17 target words relating to the digestive system by using AR-based GBL (AR-GBL), digital-based GBL (D-GBL), and paper-based GBL (P-GBL) approaches. Participants completed a pretest, an immediate posttest, and two delayed posttests (one and three weeks after the intervention) on these target words. A mixed 3 × 4 repeated measures analysis revealed a quadratic trend in vocabulary growth across all three media-based GBL approaches. AR-GBL’s effect on immediate academic vocabulary learning was superior to D-BGL’s and equivalent to P-GBL’s effect. All approaches exhibited similar declines in delayed retention after one week, with no significant differences. Notably, AR-GBL indicated a marginally significant difference compared to D-GBL in terms of retention at the three-week delayed posttest. These findings underscore the need to capitalize on each approach’s unique benefits as well as spaced learning to optimize EFL academic vocabulary learning.

Teaching English Tenses in EFL Environment Through Jeopardy Game: A Game-Based Learning Approach to Second Language Acquisition

Teaching English Tenses in EFL Environment Through Jeopardy Game: A Game-Based Learning Approach to Second Language Acquisition

Use of Educational Games in High School Chemistry Learning in West Java Province

The implementation of games in chemistry classes has provided an interesting and alternative teaching method and allows students to learn in a more entertaining way compared to traditional learning process. The game-based learning approach is divided into three approaches, namely game-based learning or educational games, gamification, and game-assisted learning. Many chemistry games have been constructed in recent years to review and strengthen various chemistry topics; therefore, it is expected that Chemistry teachers in high schools in Indonesia, especially in West Java province implement educational games in the learning process. For that reason, it is necessary to perceive an overview of the use of educational games in Chemistry learning in secondary schools in West Java province. Survey research was carried out using a random sampling technique. There were 99 chemistry teachers from 91 high schools spread across the province of West Java who voluntarily participated in the online survey. The result of the analysis obtained that 35% of chemistry teachers in the province of West Java have implemented gamification and learning using game assistance. On the contrary, game-based learning has never been implemented in Chemistry learning process in secondary schools in West Java province

Exploring Reflective Learning in Digital Game-Based Learning: A User Research

Reflective learning has gained popularity as an effective form of education that involves students reflecting on their past experiences to enhance their skills and learning. In recent years, it has been observed that games offer experiential learning and are reflective in nature, making them the ideal medium to integrate reflective learning. With digital games being popular among people of all ages, particularly young adults and children, this study explores the advantages of explicitly incorporating reflective learning into digital game-based learning (GBL) by investigating young adults' perceptions of reflective game design (RGD).
 Research suggests that digital games implicitly promote reflective learning by encouraging critical thinking, self-awareness, problem-solving skills, and motivation. Additionally, reflective learning provides immediate feedback to students, promoting self-directed learning. Allowing students to reflect on their gaming experiences can make digital games more immersive, leading to deeper learning.
 The study was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, a survey was administered to 101 young adults between the ages of 18 and 24. The survey aimed to get participants' perceptions and acceptance of games exhibiting reflective features such as heads-up displays, screen maps, message prompts, and performance comparison charts. The results showed that 86.5% of participants accepted the idea of reflective game design, indicating a high level of interest in this approach to learning. In the second phase, fifteen in-depth interviews were conducted to explore further participants' perceptions and acceptance of reflection in games. The thematic analysis of the interviews revealed common trends in using reflective game practices to design a new GBL approach. Participants noted that reflective game design can foster deeper learning, promote problem-solving skills, and enhance learning motivation.
 This study contributes to developing principles and guidelines for RGD that can assist researchers, educators, and game designers in creating effective educational games. By explicitly incorporating reflective learning into digital GBL, educational games can become more engaging, immersive, and effective in promoting critical thinking, STEM literacy, self-awareness, problem-solving skills, and motivation among students.

A Conflict Management Game in Project-based Learning

In project-based learning environments, students often face team frustration and conflicts, necessitating the development of conflict management skills. This study examines how integrating a game-based learning approach impacts students' perspectives on managing conflicts in game development project courses. Drawing on theoretical frameworks related to project-based learning, conflict management, and serious games in conflict resolution education, a case design is employed in higher education that incorporates the game "Cards of Conflict". Document analysis of student reflection notes is utilised to assess the outcomes. The results demonstrate heightened engagement among participants during the game session, leading to awareness and understanding of conflict managing principles. This encompasses the what, the why´s, and the how’s of conflict management, as well as the diverse perspectives of peer students.