Game-based Learning Platform Research Articles

An Investigation on the Application of Wordwall to Promote Learner Autonomy in EFL Classes at a University

The use of game-based learning platforms has significantly contributed to learners’ improvements in autonomous learning. This mixed methods research aimed to investigate how Wordwall, one of the game-based learning platforms, promoted learner autonomy in an EFL class. To serve the research purposes, the study conducted a two-month experimental teaching, class observations, a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The findings indicated that students showed their dynamic engagement, motivation and responsibility during their learning process. Moreover, students expressed their purposeful selection of learning content and learning templates aligned with their ability and preference, resulting in better learning outcomes. Most of them shared their positive and in-depth perceptions towards the use of Wordwall. However, the students still showed that some limitations of templates in the free learning platform and teachers’ immediate feedback cause certain hindrances to interact with this platform. Therefore, some pedagogical implications were highly recommended to help students mitigate some barriers and drawbacks, thereby optimizing the effectiveness of using Wordwall in the EFL class.

Evaluating Learning Engagement in MyPerjuangan Game-Based Learning Using E-Game Flow: A Case Study of History Education in Malaysia

Passing the History subject in Malaysia is compulsory for students who want to receive the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) certificate. Traditional teaching methods, often focused on rote memorization, have led to disengagement and low enjoyment among students. This research addresses the need for improved learning engagement and information management by developing MyPerjuangan, a game-based learning platform focusing on Malaya's Japanese occupation. The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of game-based learning in managing educational content and enhancing student engagement in history education. The study developed the platform using the Game Development Life Cycle (GDLC) methodology. It employed the E-Game Flow model to evaluate user experience across several dimensions: concentration, feedback, goal clarity, and knowledge improvement. Data were collected through a survey of 10 respondents, consisting of teachers and students, with an overall satisfaction rate of 94.3%. The mean values for key factors such as concentration (92%) and knowledge improvement (100%) indicate high levels of engagement and effective information management within the platform. These findings suggest that MyPerjuangan successfully manages and delivers historical information engagingly, significantly improving students’ interaction with the material. However, limitations such as the small sample size and the platform’s exclusivity to desktop use were identified. Future research should expand the study to a larger, more diverse sample and explore multi-platform accessibility to enhance the system's scalability. In conclusion, game-based learning is valuable for improving educational content management and student engagement in history education.

Gamifying Sustainability: Leveraging Game-Based Learning to Champion Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – A Case Study

This paper examines how sustainability education can be effectively integrated into game-based learning (GBL) to enhance environmental consciousness. As global ecological challenges intensify, instilling sustainable practices in future generations becomes crucial. GBL offers an engaging platform to embed sustainability concepts through immersive and interactive virtual environments. The study explores the theoretical underpinnings of sustainability education and GBL, highlighting their synergy in raising awareness and fostering sustainable behaviours. By reviewing existing literature, it evaluates the impact of incorporating sustainability principles into GBL platforms. The discussion includes the integration of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), real-world scenarios, simulations, and collaborative elements to deepen players' understanding and stimulate critical thinking about complex sustainability issues. The paper also examines the role of feedback mechanisms, assessment tools, and adaptive learning approaches in maintaining engagement and knowledge retention. It concludes by advocating for the inclusion of sustainability in GBL as a means to develop environmentally conscious citizens. Leveraging the immersive nature of games, educators can cultivate a generation equipped to understand and address sustainability challenges, contributing to innovative educational approaches for promoting sustainable practices.

Students’ and faculty continuous intention to use gamification in higher education: A structural analysis

Over the past decade, the integration of technology, particularly gamification, has initiated a substantial transformation within the field of education. However, educators frequently confront the challenge of identifying suitable competitive game-based learning platforms amidst the growing emphasis on cultivating creativity within the classroom and effectively integrating technology into pedagogical practices. The current study examines students and faculty continuous intention to use gamification in higher education. The data was collected through an online survey with a sample size of 763 Pakistani respondents from various universities around Pakistan. The structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data and to investigate how continuous intention to use gamification is influenced by, extended TAM model with inclusion of variables such as task technology fit, social influence, social recognition and hedonic motivation. The results have shown that task technology has no significant influence on perceived usefulness (PU) where as it has a significant influence on perceived ease of use (PEOU). Social influence (SI) indicates no significant influence on perceived ease of use. Social recognition (SR) indicates positive influence on perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and continuous intention. The dimensional analysis indicated that perceived ease of use has insignificant influence on perceived usefulness. Both PEOU and PU exhibit positive influence on attitude. Hedonic motivation (HM) and attitude were observed to have a positive influence on continuous intention (CI). Moreover, gamification is found to efficiently and effectively achieve meaningful goals by tapping intrinsic motivation of the users through engaging them in playful experiences.

Developing lexical competence of the 3-4 grade students using game-based learning platform «Kahoot!»

Developing lexical competence of the 3-4 grade students using game-based learning platform «Kahoot!»

Gamification as an e-learning tool: A Literature Review

The purpose of the article is to highlight the status of gamification of the educational process as an element of e-learning. The use of the game space in the educational process requires compliance with a number of specific conditions, so the task of the study is to determine the organisational and functional characteristics of gamification. The methodology involves the use of the principles of qualitative research, which analyses scientific views (53 sources were analysed) on the use of gamification in the educational process. The systematic literature review is conducted using the PRISMA 2020 flowchart, which allowed for a variable selection of sources relevant to the study of the current problem. The results of the study indicate the following trends in the positioning of gamification tools in the e-learning cluster: auxiliary status of gamification (42%), reinforcing status of the game factor (39%), alternative status of game-based learning (15%), negative feedback on the actualisation of gamification (4%). The literature review confirms the trend of involving a game case in the educational paradigm. At the same time, the role and format of gamification does not have a clear algorithm for implementation and functioning in learning activities, which indicates the need to streamline this cluster of e-learning. The scientific and pedagogical discourse today does not have a clear answer to the general positioning of gamification in the educational system. Institutionally, gamification is enshrined in educational strategies due to global trends in the digitalisation of society, but at the organisational and functional level, there are contradictions about the status of the game space in the structure of e-learning. The study identified two cases of game-based learning platforms in the innovative educational space: an autonomous online game-based learning format (54%) and a game tool as an element of the digital learning environment (46%). The scientific novelty of the study is focused on the correlation of indicators of quantitative increase in the level of gamification and qualitative indicators of the effectiveness of this e-learning case. Prospects for scientific research are focused on developing a strategy for the development of gamification in the educational sphere in general and in the context of e-learning in particular. Conclusion. Thus, gamification has gained positions in the e-learning system and is forming its own niche in the educational paradigm. The rapid digitalisation of the socio-cultural space causes the diversity and disorder of the organisation of the e-learning game case (especially in the context of the educational and pedagogical status), which is expressed in the scientific discourse of the last five years.

Effectiveness of a minecraft education intervention for improving spatial thinking in primary school children: A mixed methods two-level cluster randomised trial

BackgroundSpatial thinking plays a crucial role in STEM success. Minecraft Education, a digital game-based learning platform, provides opportunities for developing students’ spatial thinking while supporting curricular content. AimThis study evaluated the effectiveness of a Minecraft Education intervention, integrated into the curriculum, in improving spatial thinking and creativity. SampleFifth and sixth year primary school students (Mage = 11.53, SDage = 0.58) and their teachers. MethodsThe study used a mixed-methods, two-level cluster randomised-controlled trial design. Thirty-two classes (N = 885 students) were randomly assigned to the intervention or education-as-usual control group. Assessments of spatial thinking and creativity were completed at pre-test, post-test and 6-week follow up. Teacher interviews were conducted to understand their experiences of the intervention. ResultsWhile no overall intervention-related improvements in spatial thinking were found, subgroup analyses revealed that 5th year demonstrated improved spatial thinking compared to 6th year at post-test. This may be attributable to 5th year students’ higher levels of engagement in the intervention. Unexpectedly, creativity scores were higher in the control group at post-test. Qualitative interviews identified four themes: 1) Improving spatial thinking, 2) Improving creativity, 3) Engagement, and 4) Difficulties implementing the programme. ConclusionThis study highlights the importance of increasing student engagement in spatial interventions to improve their spatial skills. Finally, the study suggests that sustained practice is required to maintain the benefits of spatial instruction/training.

Exploring the Impact of Kahoot! as An Interactive Game-Based Tool in Learning Chemistry for Undergraduates: A Review

Kahoot! is a popular game-based learning platform that leverages technology to create interactive and engaging classroom quizzes. It fosters the active participation of students and is believed to enhance students’ comprehension more effectively than traditional methods in educational settings. Thus, this review paper systematically examines and integrates existing literatures on using Kahoot! for learning Chemistry at the undergraduate level. By exploring the impact of Kahoot! on various aspects of Chemistry education, including academic performance, student engagement, study motivation, and attentiveness, this review provides a thorough understanding of its effectiveness as an educational tool. A comprehensive search was conducted across academic databases such as Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, using predetermined keywords like 'undergraduate students,' 'Kahoot, game-based learning,' 'Chemistry education,' and 'academic performance'. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed articles or conference papers published between 2014 and 2024. These articles or papers examined the impact of game-based learning tools, specifically Kahoot!, in Chemistry education. After an initial broad review, articles specifically discussing the use of Kahoot! in Chemistry education were selected for the final analysis. A thematic analysis of the four aspects mentioned above was employed to synthesize the findings. The results confirm that Kahoot! positively influences students' academic performance, heightens engagement, enhances study motivation and develops attentiveness in undergraduate Chemistry classrooms. However, further research is needed to address literature gaps and refine the implementation of Kahoot! to maximize its educational potential for Chemistry undergraduates.

GAME-BASED LEARNING IN MATHEMATICS FOR PUPILS AND TEACHERS

Computer games are utilized as teaching aids in a method known as “game-based learning.” Enhancing teaching abilities, evaluating learners, tracking progress, and offering learning support are among the learning objectives. The Self-Determination Theory is employed in the study to evaluate the uptake of web apps. 41 fifth-grade pupils who were enrolled in the study completed a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. These participants used a game-based learning platform. The results show that most participants embraced and adjusted to the game-based learning methodology. The outcomes show that fifth-grade pupils benefit and are positively impacted by this method.

Needs Analysis of Mandarin Language Learning Assisted by the Wordwall Game Application on Students a University in Padang

In the digital era, the integration of technology in education is becoming increasingly crucial to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. One prominent tool in the context of Mandarin language instruction is Wordwall, a game-based learning platform that offers various interactive activities. This article aims to elucidate and evaluate the benefits of using Wordwall in the context of Mandarin language teaching and learning. The research conducted is of a descriptive nature. The respondents for this study were 52 students at Padang State University enrolled in Mandarin language courses. The subjects of this research consisted of 52 UNP study program students (45 women and 7 men) aged between 19 and 20 years who were selected using the random sampling technique.Data collection utilized a questionnaire through Google Forms and assessments of quizzes on the Wordwall game. The research data were analyzed qualitative by conducting validity tests, reliability tests, and classical assumption tests. The research findings conclude that learning with Wordwall makes the learning process easy, enjoyable, and assists students in understanding Mandarin. Furthermore, the implications of this research suggest that learning through the application of play techniques using the Wordwall game is highly suitable for beginner Mandarin language learners.

The “The benefits of wordwall games for teaching and learning Mandarin language

This article aims to discuss the application of the benefits of the worldwall game as an innovative learning alternative for Mandarin language subjects. In the digital era, the integration of technology in learning is becoming increasingly important to increase student engagement and learning outcomes. One tool that stands out in the context of learning Mandarin is wordwall, a game-based learning platform that provides various interactive activities. This article aims to explain and evaluate the benefits of using wordwalls in the context of Chinese language teaching and learning. The implementation of online learning is still experiencing problems, especially students' enthusiasm for learning has decreased. To overcome this obstacle, one interesting way to increase student enthusiasm for learning is to use the wordwall game. This wordwall game is an online learning media (E-Learning) which has game, quiz, discussion and survey features. This research examines the wordwall game which has the benefit of being an effective learning medium to increase students' mastery and motivation in learning Mandarin online. Quantitative research with an experimental approach, with a pre-test and post-test design with a control group and an experimental group. Population took 60 students taking MKU Mandarin courses, divided into 2 groups, namely the control group and the experimental group. Data collection for this research used a language mastery test instrument to measure the ability of four aspects of language, namely listening, speaking, reading and writing. To measure the level of student motivation, a questionnaire technique using Google Forms was used. The independent variable is the use of the wordwall game as a learning medium. Mastery of Mandarin and student motivation are the dependent variables. The results of research on learning with wordwall make the learning process easy, fun and can help students understand Mandarin. Apart from that, learning by applying playing techniques using wordwall games is very appropriate for beginner Mandarin learners.

Effectiveness of the Use of Quizizz Media on Students' Learning Interest

This quantitative research examined the efficacy of Quizizz, an educational game-based learning platform, in fostering students' interest in learning within Vocational High Schools. The objectives included the assessment of the impact of Quizizz on student engagement, attitudes towards learning, perceptions of assessments, and the role of game characteristics in fostering the learning interest. A sample of 100 students from two Vocational High Schools in Bengkulu City, Indonesia, was randomly selected, and an interactive learning assessment tool using Quizizz, was employed for the evaluation. Pre- and post-implementation surveys, observations, and interviews were conducted in order to collect quantitative and qualitative data. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, paired sample t-tests, reliability tests, and normality tests, were employed to analyse the obtained data. Comparing pre- and post-implementation surveys, substantial enhancements across various indicators of learning interest, including happiness, involvement, interest, and attention were observed. The results indicated a significant improvement in students' learning interest following the implementation of Quizizz. The pre-implementation surveys revealed insufficient levels of interest, while the post-implementation surveys showed substantial enhancements across all indicators, including happiness, involvement, interest, and attention. Statistical tests confirmed the effectiveness of Quizizz in enhancing students' learning interest, with a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores. The reliability of the instrument used for data collection was established through Cronbach's Alpha test, ensuring consistency and reliability of results. The findings underscored the importance of innovative learning media like Quizizz in stimulating student engagement and interest in learning. By incorporating game elements and interactive features, the Quizizz provides an engaging and effective learning experience, positively impacting students' attitudes towards learning. This study contributed to the literature on educational technology by demonstrating the effectiveness of Quizizz as a learning tool in Vocational High Schools, highlighting its potential of enhancing student learning interest and educational outcomes improvement.

What happens when students engage in learning how to reason about Dutch historical literature in a digital game?

L1 teachers expect quite a lot from their students when dealing with L1 literature. It is therefore important that teachers adequately equip them in developing their skills in reading, understanding, and reflecting on literature. But what happens when a digital method is used to achieve this all? As part of her PhD-research, Renate van Keulen developed a digital game to teach students how to reason about and with historical literature. Looking at the implementation of this game, this contribution tackles two main issues at hand in her class. First, we examine the effects of digitalization of literature teaching based on students’ assignments and evaluations. Second, based on an ethnographic interpretive inquiry focused on the teaching of literature via this digital method, we advance some considerations on what is gained and what is lost by these students when approaching reasoning about literature at the online-offline nexus. We conclude by reflecting on the current position of L1 teaching and the implications that digitalization and game-based learning platforms may have for students’ ownership of how to reason about literature.

“EDUPLAY”- Interactive Game Based Learning Platform

This research introduces an innovative approach to inclusive education through the development of a game-based Learning platform tailored for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). With a focus on fostering an accessible and engaging educational environment, the platform aims to break down barriers and promote equal learning opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities. The present study investigates the use of gamification to foster commitment and engagement among users with disabilities. Two case studies demonstrating the application of gamification are provided. The first is the development of an application to teach a blind person, and the second one is the creation of an application to aid individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in navigating their environment. The study reveals that universal design for learning principles can be used indirectly to adjust apps for users to utilize the software consistently. This study provides preliminary evaluations for both case studies, which were undertaken with relatively small samples. The first case study revealed that three blind individuals who took part in the review scored an average of 91.7on the system usability scale. At the same time, the second case study involving the observation of a single individual with ASD also revealed that utilizing the designed app improved performance. Despite the limited sample size, the findings suggest that gamification may effectively encourage and generate commitment among the users with disabilities.

Applying Kahoot! In Teaching Vocabulary To High School Students:

This research explores the application of Kahoot!, a game-based learning platform, in enhancing vocabulary acquisition for high school students in Duc Trong Province, Vietnam. The study investigates how this digital tool impacts student motivation, engagement, and overall vocabulary retention. Seventy 10th-grade students participated in the study, and data were collected through interviews and surveys to assess their experiences with the platform. The findings indicate that although participation was initially inconsistent, the majority of students reported increased interest in vocabulary learning when using Kahoot!. The platform was particularly effective in fostering student interaction, focus, and healthy competition, which contributed to improved learning outcomes. The study highlights that the integration of digital games into classroom teaching can positively influence student engagement and motivation, especially when teaching vocabulary. Kahoot! allows for real-time feedback, interactive quizzes, and the use of multimedia elements, all of which contribute to a more dynamic and enjoyable learning experience. Furthermore, the study emphasizes that the platform promotes a lively and inclusive classroom environment, where students feel more comfortable participating in discussions and vocabulary activities. The research concludes by recommending the adoption of digital tools like Kahoot! to enhance student-centered learning, particularly in language instruction. The positive correlation between Kahoot! and vocabulary retention suggests that game-based learning can be an effective teaching method in fostering active participation and improving educational outcomes. This study provides insights into how digital games can transform traditional learning approaches, making them more engaging and effective for students in the context of language education.

Kahoot in the Classroom: A Game-Changer for Motivating English Grammar Learning in Tertiary Education in Bangladesh

This study explores the transformative impact of Kahoot! a popular game-based learning platform, on motivating English grammar learning in tertiary education, particularly in the context of Bangladesh. With 8 billion participants globally, including 60% of US students, Kahoot! has become a prevalent tool in language classrooms. The literature review highlights its positive effects on learning outcomes, student engagement, and classroom dynamics. As education evolves towards active learning approaches, Kahoot! stands out as a versatile game-based tool, aligning with modern pedagogical shifts. The research methodology employs a qualitative approach, utilizing in-depth interviews with English department students of a university in Bangladesh to unravel their experiences and perceptions of Kahoot! Findings indicate that Kahoot! effectively motivates learners, fostering a dynamic and competitive atmosphere. Despite limitations in sample size and disciplinary diversity, the study suggests that Kahoot's integration positively influences motivation and engagement in grammar learning. Exploring students' experiences, the research reveals a pronounced enthusiasm for Kahoot! emphasizing its role in creating an interactive and enjoyable learning environment. Participants expressed a heightened interest in grammar learning, attributing it to Kahoot!'s gamified approach. The findings underscore the platform's potential to transcend traditional barriers, enhancing motivation and active participation among students across diverse educational backgrounds. Recommendations include reconsidering payment options for affordability, promoting teacher adoption, and potential curriculum integration. The study contributes to the understanding of game-based learning's motivational impact and sets the stage for future research in specific grammatical items and homogeneous disciplinary contexts. The findings reveal that Kahoot enhances motivation, promoting an active and engaging environment in English grammar learning at the tertiary level.

The Game-based Learning (GbL) Platform with Generative AI to Enhance Digital and Technology Literacy Skills

The GbL platform, or game-based learning platform, with generative AI is a research tool initiated from the combination of game-based learning concepts and generative artificial intelligence technology; thereby, this platform is intended to be used as a guideline for the instruction management, in which learners can respond and interact with the real-time activities by means of gamification. The objectives of this research are (1) to study and synthesize the conceptual framework of the GbL platform with generative AI to enhance digital and technology literacy skills, (2) to develop the architecture of the GbL platform with generative AI to enhance digital and technology literacy skills, and (3) to study the results of the development of the GbL platform with generative AI to enhance digital and technology literacy skills. The results of this research show that (1) the overall elements suitability of the architecture of the GbL platform with generative AI is at the highest level (Mean = 4.51, SD = 0.48), and (2) the overall suitability of the architecture of the GbL platform with generative AI is at the highest level (Mean = 4.59, SD = 0.41). Nevertheless, there are still some research gaps in this study; that is, this study was conducted with quite a small sample group and it focuses mainly on the results of evaluation on the architecture of the GbL platform. Therefore, this research is regarded merely as a pilot study designated for feasibility study to further develop the GbL platform that can be put in practical use in the future.

MakeCode arcade platform for game-based learning

Currently, there is an increasing demand for specialists in the field of computer science. However, for many children computer science is not as interesting as it could be. They learn many topics in a very short time and usually do not have the motivation to continue their studies in Computer Science. The solution could be teaching through games. In this paper, we describe our research into whether the MakeCode Arcade environment is suitable for teaching programming through games (game-based learning platform). In the research, we compare the responses of 315 male and female students and the responses of elementary and secondary school students. The research showed that boys liked the MakeCode environment more than girls and also that programming games in this environment were more meaningful to them as the girls. In this contribution, we describe also our experiences with using this environment for teaching in extracurricular activity at our university, in normal lessons in primary schools, as a motivational tool for distance workshops and also for workshops for teachers.

Online Learning Evaluation (Kahoot!) As A Motivational Tool For Students Learning

We live in an era in which technology develops and evolves every second, making it important to explore its application in teaching and learning outcomes. Traditionally, educators have used passive tools and techniques to deliver information and course materials. However, the spread of technology in the field of education has been followed by the use of various tools in the classroom, such as Kahoot!, a game-based learning platform. This study showed that implementing Kahoot! in an undergraduate course, Seminar and Presentation Skills, at Sultan Qaboos University increased students’ motivation and engagement. Overall, 70.2% of students stated that Kahoot! increased their interest in the course and enjoyment of the class atmosphere. About 64% of the students also appreciated the real-time assessment of their performance in the classroom. The use of Kahoot! improved key skills in students’ attention, creativity, and critical thinking. This study could inspire educators and college instructors to use active learning tools to optimize the learning outcomes of their courses.

Students’ Perception on Game-Based Learning Using Technology: Kahoot! As a Case Study

There have been studies which exploring students’ perception on the use of kahoot!. However, research on investigating students’ opinion on the implementation of kahoot and students’ recommendation for educational stake-holders is uncommon. This study relies on semi-structured interview data from 15 second-year students (10 female and 5 male) enrolling in the Introduction to Linguistics Class in English Education Department of STKIP Yapis Dompu. This study aims to explore the benefits of the use of kahoot, the barriers and students’ recommendation to educational stake-holders for improvement. The data were analysed using thematic analysis adapted from (Braun & Clarke, 2006) which consists of 6 steps. The finding of this paper suggested that the implementation of kahoot in learning process had four benefits: Firstly, Kahoot creates fun and interested learning atmosphere. Secondly, it riggers students’ attention and focus. Thirdly, it facilitates comprehension of material Taught. Lastly, Kahoot! fosters positive competitiveness among students. Additionally; there were two main barriers of using kahoot in this research: firstly, limitations on internet access. Secondly, not enough time to answer. The surprising conclusion of the research was that, all participants had never been exposed to game-based learning platform during their formal school (elementary and high school); they only were only exposed to game-based learning platform at this introduction to linguistics class. Therefore; all participants highly recommended to all lecturers and teachers to game-based learning platform in their teaching. This study relied on game-based learning platform kahoot. Therefore, similar study which explores other game-based learning platforms is highly recommended.