Game Programming Research Articles

Effects of Collaborative Support on Learning in Serious Games for Programming

This study examines the effectiveness of a collaborative support method in enhancing programming learning outcomes in a serious game. The game Code Hasp was developed to facilitate the comparison between two support methods, worked examples and a collaborative peer support approach. A total of 111 elementary school students participated, divided into two groups. The experimental group received collaborative support from teammates alongside worked examples, while the control group relied solely on worked examples. Pre- and post-test results and in-game data revealed that the collaborative support method improved learning efficiency and problem-solving skills. A notable effect of the process was the emergence of a leadership role in most collaborative groups. The game’s support design and shared goal structure mitigate potential problems associated with unbalanced participation. These findings suggest that collaborative support systems in serious games are a promising strategy for promoting engagement and improving learning outcomes in programming education.

Effect of serious games over conventional therapy in the rehabilitation of people with multiple sclerosis – a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose This meta-analysis aimed to quantify the effect of serious games over conventional therapy on upper-limb activity, balance, gait, fatigue, and cognitive functions in people with multiple sclerosis. Materials and methods Search strategies were developed for PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. Studies were selected if participants were adults with multiple sclerosis; the intervention consisted of a virtual reality serious game-based program; the control group received conventional therapy; outcomes included upper limb activity, balance, gait, fatigue, or cognitive functions; and used a randomized controlled trial design. Data were synthesized using a standardized mean difference with a random-effects model. Results From 2532 studies, seventeen trials were selected (n = 740). Overall, serious games programs effect on upper limb activity, gait, verbal memory, verbal fluency and attention seemed neutral. Balance functions appeared to be improved by semi-immersive virtual reality serious games (SMD = 0.48;95%CI = 0.12–0.84;p = 0.01;I2=0%), fatigue by treadmill serious games (SMD = 0.80;95%CI = 0.40–1.20;p < 0.001) and visuo-spatial memory by semi-immersive virtual reality general cognitive serious games (SMD = 0.35;95%CI = 0.04–0.65;p = 0.03;I2=0%). Conclusion This review suggests, with a very-low-to-low certainty of evidence, that while some specific serious games may improve balance, fatigue and visuo-spatial memory, their overall effect on upper limb activity, gait, and other cognitive functions appears neutral.

Games Design Frameworks: A Novel Approach for Games Design Pedagogy

The discipline of Games Design has surged in popularity in higher education as a route to industry for aspiring game developers. Notably, at the time of writing 138 UK Universities are now offering game design degrees, and many further education institutions. This growth is not only in volume but also in the diversity of students who enrol in these courses. Young learners, coming from various backgrounds and with differing levels of professional and academic experience, are drawn to games as a field of study. Games disciplines (such as Games Art, Design, and Programming) are often seen as more accessible than their comparative parent disciplines (such as Computer Science). This diversity presents both an opportunity and a challenge for educators: to develop teaching methodologies that not only cater to a wide range of experiences but also effectively prepare students for the creative and technical demands of the games industry. This paper introduces a pioneering design concept utilized in the pedagogy of game design, namely the use of game frameworks. A framework is a structure built in a video games engine, containing a pre-made, playable game experience, which students are taught to build upon and modify. Frameworks abstract and modularise fundamental, complex elements of the game creation process, allowing new learners to quickly become engaged with the iterative process of designing gameplay. It also allows educators to focus on a specific area of interest. For example, a student can focus just on the UI elements of the game for a whole module of study, without needing to have built the entire game first. This allows students to focus on the elements being taught, without introducing a significant amount of non-assessed content just to enable to learning. This position paper discusses our application of this approach, including the process of framework design, supportive assessment, successes and challenges.

Gender (in)equity in the Paralympic Movement? Analyzing the institutional policies of the International Paralympic Committee

ABSTRACT Purpose The goal of this study was to investigate if – and how – the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) addressed gender issues over the past two completed Paralympic cycles (Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020). Methodology It involved documentary research, including a content analysis of the institution’s Handbook, statutes, strategic plans, and reports valid between 2013 and 2021. Findings There is a progressive effort by the IPC to address gender equality in sports participation and leadership. However, besides the establishment of policies towards this end, there is a lack of alignment between these policies and their implementation. Gender inequity persists within the Paralympic Games program and in women’s participation in the Paralympic Games as well as in decision-making roles. Practical Implications Considering that men and women depart from unequal conditions, advocacy for gender equality is not enough. There is a need for equity, which involves affirmative policies and actions to foster women’s participation. Research Contribution This research fills a gap in the literature by delving into the IPC’s documents to analyze gender issues. It also provides practical insights on what needs to be done for gender equity within the Paralympic Movement. Originality/Value Some of our findings are of application not only to Paralympic institutions, but also to other sport institutions outside the Paralympic Movement.

Better together: involving parents to improve the impact of a video game program to promote primary school students’ emotional competencies

AbstractThe objective of the present study was to evaluate whether parents’ participation could enhance the impact of a video game designed to promote children’s emotional competencies. To achieve this, the video game Happy 8–12 was implemented at school. A separate group of children also played the video game Happy for Families at home with their parents. Differences between children who participated together with their parents, children who played only at school and a control group were explored. Additionally, the study examined improvements in children’s anxiety and academic performance, as well as parents’ emotional awareness, emotional regulation, and parental stress. The sample comprised 137 students along with 42 parents. Results indicated improvements in both groups of children compared to the control group, particularly in emotional awareness, life and well-being competencies, and the global emotional competence. Increases in emotional regulation, emotional autonomy, and social competence, were observed solely among children who participated with their parents. However, no differences emerged in terms of anxiety and academic achievement when compared to the control group. In addition to these findings, parents demonstrated improvements in emotional awareness and regulation, though there was no significant reduction in parental stress. These preliminary results support the efficacy of Happy 8–12 and Happy for Families in promoting children’s emotional competencies and emphasize the importance of involving parents to enhance the intervention outcomes.

A systematic review of catching and comparing the most valuable gamification elements used in online learning

Learning through games has exploded worldwide. Many students enjoy learning through gaming programs, and its effects on curricula and instruction have recently increased. Saleem et al. (2022) recommended further research to investigate the most valuable elements of gamified online learning empirically. Thus, this study systematically explored the gamified elements employed in online learning literature, focusing on identifying the most practical and valuable elements and aiming to provide insights that contribute to the existing knowledge of gaming techniques in online education.

이스포츠 프로리그 경기관람속성이 방문관람의도에 미치는 영향: 계획된 행동이론을 중심으로

With the continuous evolution of various IT technologies such as live streaming platforms and the metaverse, e-sports (electronic sports) have witnessed sustained growth. Notably, e-sports have been formally recognized as a discipline in the Hangzhou Asian Games, reflecting their increasing popularity in China. This study employs the Theory of Planned Behavior to empirically analyze how viewing attributes of e-sports league games influence the intention of Chinese spectators to attend events in person. Data from 391 respondents were collected and analyzed for this purpose. The empirical findings highlight six key viewing attributes: cost, game content, escapism, fan service, additional facilities, and related tourism. Among these attributes, game content, escapism, and additional facilities emerge as significant influencers of spectator attitudes, thereby impacting their intention to attend events in person. Moreover, spectator attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control are identified as significant factors affecting the intention to attend in person. In conclusion, enhancing the quality of game programming and providing opportunities for escapism are critical. Additionally, expanding supplementary facilities to accommodate in-person attendance is recommended. These insights provide foundational data for optimizing the organization of e-sports leagues and enhancing visitor experiences in the region. Furthermore, they can inform strategic improvements in e-sports viewing services, fostering continued growth in the industry.

Linguistic games program to develop oral expression in early childhood education students

In this work, the influence of mobile applications in teaching the subject of Language and Literature was evaluated, highlighting their impact on academic skills and educational communication. The participation of these tools in the understanding of content, the interaction between students and teachers, and access to educational resources was analyzed. Theoretical and empirical methods were used, including document review, interviews, performance observation, and pedagogical tests. The sample consisted of 120 teachers. The results showed that 85% of the participants improved their digital skills after receiving training on the use of mobile applications. On the other hand, 90% of the students reported improved communication with teachers and 88% found it easier to understand and analyze literary texts. It was possible to demonstrate that mobile applications promoted collaboration and active learning and are also a valuable resource for optimizing academic performance.

Linguistic games program to develop oral expression in early childhood education students

This work was evaluated through an observational record that measured indicators such as Oral Expression, Clarity, Fluency, Coherence, Intonation and Vocalization, and aimed at improving communication skills in the initial stage of early childhood, crucial for human development. Using a sample of 25 children, the observations were made with an ordinal scale from 0 to 3, and the internal consistency of the items was evaluated by Cronbach's Alpha, whose high values (0.88 to 0.97) indicate high reliability of the assessments. The results show significant variability in the individual scores, highlighting the effectiveness of child-specific pedagogical interventions. These results underscore the importance of continuous and adaptive assessment to foster optimal development of speech skills in children.

Wii Game Program Development

Abstract Date Presented 03/21/24 A Wii game program was developed for adults in a skilled nursing facility. Posttest scores from the BBS and the SCS–R indicate that OTs can use the Wii program as an evidence-based intervention to improve balance and socialization among older adults. Primary Author and Speaker: Sumair Rehman Additional Authors and Speakers: Dr. Rae Ann Smith, Julie L. Watson

Integration of Sales and Operations: A Dynamic Mixed-Integer Programming Game

Integration of Sales and Operations: A Dynamic Mixed-Integer Programming Game

Deep Learning-Driven Compiler Enhancements for Efficient Matrix Multiplication

Matrix multiplication is a fundamental operation in many computational fields, requiring optimization to handle increasing data sizes efficiently. In this paper, the implementation of Deep Learning in Matrix multiplication is reviewed, which is considered important nowadays due to the growing complexity of matrix multiplication for gaming and complex programs. The current standard matrix multiplication and the time taken by it on different matrix sizes are described. The Tiled Matrix multiplication, which trims the matrix into various pieces and calculates the product for each piece, and thereafter combines the result, is also described. The times taken by both methods for different matrix sizes were compared. The main idea was to use Deep Neural Networks (DNN) to compare and rank code variants that are obtained in pieces and determine their relative performance. A tournament-based ranking system is used for assigning ranks to the code versions. The effectiveness of these techniques was evaluated on various matrix multiplication operations commonly found in deep learning workloads. Up to 8.844x speedup over the naive implementation for a matrix size of 1024 is achieved by this approach. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of combining compiler optimization techniques and deep learning models in optimizing matrix multiplication.

Exploring player agency in educational video games

Player agency is the freedom and control to make decisions during gameplay. Game designers shape player agency by including alternative storylines, optional objectives, and developing a range of mechanics thereby enriching player experience with novelty and variety during gameplay. So far, there is a dearth of studies that focus on giving autonomy to players over the use of learning mechanic in educational games. This study explores the impact of providing players with the autonomy over the use of learning mechanic. Students interacted with two versions of a computer programming game prototype differing in the level of player agency in terms of freedom to employ the learning mechanics during gameplay. We employed quantitative and qualitative methods to investigate if player agency affected students’ learning outcomes, game enjoyment, and intrinsic motivation to learn. The results have implications for design of educational games, suggesting that incorporating player agency, particularly in the context of choosing learning mechanics, can enhance enjoyment and intrinsic motivation without compromising the educational effectiveness of the game.

Technological Features of Immersive Virtual Reality Systems for Upper Limb Stroke Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review.

Stroke is the second most common cause of death worldwide, and it greatly impacts the quality of life for survivors by causing impairments in their upper limbs. Due to the difficulties in accessing rehabilitation services, immersive virtual reality (IVR) is an interesting approach to improve the availability of rehabilitation services. This systematic review evaluates the technological characteristics of IVR systems used in the rehabilitation of upper limb stroke patients. Twenty-five publications were included. Various technical aspects such as game engines, programming languages, headsets, platforms, game genres, and technical evaluation were extracted from these papers. Unity 3D and C# are the primary tools for creating IVR apps, while the Oculus Quest (Meta Platforms Technologies, Menlo Park, CA, USA) is the most often used headset. The majority of systems are created specifically for rehabilitation purposes rather than being readily available for purchase (i.e., commercial games). The analysis also highlights key areas for future research, such as game assessment, the combination of hardware and software, and the potential integration incorporation of biofeedback sensors. The study highlights the significance of technological progress in improving the effectiveness and user-friendliness of IVR. It calls for additional research to fully exploit IVR's potential in enhancing stroke rehabilitation results.

Comparative Analysis of Angles in the Spinshot Throws Towards the Goal in Beach Handball

Beach handball game is a dynamic sport with high intensity, conducted on a sand court. The inclusion of this sports branch in the Youth Olympic Games program in 2018 held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, elevated the profile of this international sports branch and underscores an increased need for a multitude of performance factors in this sport. The research aim. The research aim was to conduct a comparative analysis of the spinshot technique between an advanced player and a beginner, aiming to gather useful information regarding a technical profile for spinning shots in beach handball and to guide training for enhanced efficiency in this throwing technique. Objectives. Objectives encompassed the analysis of video recordings of two players concerning the angles between body segments and between the body and the ground at various moments during the execution of the technique. Methods and means. For the analysis of throws, video recordings of the executions were performed on two subjects, both beach handball players – one being an advanced player, and the other a beginner. To measure the parameters to be analyzed, including angular characteristics of body segments at key moments during the execution of the spinning shot technique, and the execution times of the two players, Kinovea software v 0.9.5 was utilized. Additionally, trajectory analysis and execution time were examined. Results. In the video analysis of the movement, the force generated by the players is not visible, but it aids in understanding the action and the effects of internal forces (muscle action) and external forces (gravity and friction) on the moving players. The discrepancy between the advanced and beginner players in achieving a half (180⁰) spin in the technical procedure of the spinsshot lies in the flight phase. Execution times are close between the two players, but video analysis revealed differences in the quality of their executions regarding the correct implementation of the spinning shot. Conclusions. The analysis results highlight significant differences in joint amplitude between the two players during spinning shot executions, potentially caused by insufficient muscle group strength, reduced joint mobility, or incorrect mastery of the throwing technique. Keywords: beach handball, spinshot, angles movement, kinovea

Enhancing Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Decision Making through Intelligent Task Planning and Behavior Tree Optimization

The expansion of underwater scenarios and missions highlights the crucial need for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to make informed decisions. Therefore, developing an efficient decision-making framework is vital to enhance productivity in executing complex tasks within tight time constraints. This paper delves into task planning and reconstruction within the AUV control decision system to enable intelligent completion of intricate underwater tasks. Behavior trees (BTs) offer a structured approach to organizing the switching structure of a hybrid dynamical system (HDS), originally introduced in the computer game programming community. In this research, an intelligent search algorithm, MCTS-QPSO (Monte Carlo tree search and quantum particle swarm optimization), is proposed to bolster the AUV’s capacity in planning complex task decision control systems. This algorithm tackles the issue of the time-consuming manual design of control systems by effectively integrating BTs. By assessing a predefined set of subtasks and actions in tandem with the complex task scenario, a reward function is formulated for MCTS to pinpoint the optimal subtree set. The QPSO algorithm is then leveraged for subtree integration, treating it as an optimal path search problem from the root node to the leaf node. This process optimizes the search subtree, thereby enhancing the robustness and security of the control architecture. To expedite search speed and algorithm convergence, this paper recommends reducing the search space by pre-grouping conditions and states within the behavior tree. The efficacy and superiority of the proposed algorithm are validated through security and timeliness evaluations of the BT, along with comparisons with other algorithms for automatic AUV decision control behavior tree design. Ultimately, the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed algorithm are corroborated through simulations on a multi-AUV complex task platform, showcasing its practical applicability and efficiency in real-world underwater scenarios.

Teaching Methods of Spoken English — Taking Rural Areas in Southwest China for Example

Based on the theoretical knowledge of educational psychology and language specialization, and under the guidance of “Positive Psychology Theory”, this project develops a set of innovative spoken English programs for secondary school students that combines Wittgenstein’s “Language Game Theory” with positive psychology theory and the “Positive Psychology Theory”. The program is based on a new model of student-student interaction and teacher-led guidance to improve secondary school students’ English speaking ability through small group classes and a differentiated game program for the students. The program breaks the traditional spoken English teaching model, combines students’ physiological and psychological characteristics, and strives to promote students’ personalized development, help students achieve from passive reception to active participation, and effectively improve students’ English language skills; in addition, the program also provides assistance and reference for solving the uneven distribution of educational resources between urban and rural areas and promoting the revitalization of rural education.

Pelatihan Pembuatan Games dengan Scratch Untuk Siswa SMA Wachid Hasyim 5 Surabaya

In the increasingly developing digital era, there are several computer skills that high school students must have. One of them is understanding the basics of programming and software development. This service program aims to introduce basic programming concepts and systematic logical thinking to Wachid Hasyim 5 High School students and motivate students to learn computers as a basic skill that must be possessed in the current era by creating game programs with Scratch. The implementation of this training was carried out using a participatory approach where the implementing team provided direct learning and assistance to participants. Mentoring is provided until students can master the material for making games with Scratch. The results of this service program are an increase in students' understanding of the basics of computer programming and an increase in students' skills in creating games with Scratch. This is proven by the post-test results which increased after the training was implemented.

The philosophy of modern olympism through the eyes of Ukrainian and American athletes

Many scientists in the field of history of physical culture, sports and the Olympic movement are concerned with the philosophy of modern Olympism and its main principles. The article focuses on the fact that the foundations of modern Olympism were laid at the end of the 19th century by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the initiator of the revival of the Olympic Games. It was he who first proposed the philosophical doctrine of Olympism, based on universal moral principles. Pierre de Coubertin believed that Olympism was due to his humanistic potential combines sport with culture and education, serves as a worldview and axiological basis for the upbringing of the younger generation. Ancient Greek philosophers understood that physical perfection, strength and health only in combination with spiritual and moral qualities and education through exercises and competitions formed a perfect personality. Pierre de Coubertin, having drawn inspiration from the Ancient Olympic Games and the principles of the Greek education system, was convinced that the philosophy that created Greek culture can serve the development of modern humanity. Today, Olympism has the status of universal value and is an important factor of culture in general and sports culture in particular. But, as it turned out, athletes on different continents perceive the philosophy of modern Olympism in different ways. Pole dance, a relatively new sport that is rapidly developing and gaining popularity all over the world, particularly in Ukraine, was chosen for the study. The impetus for the study was the fact that Cathy Coates, the founder of the international Pole dance federation, together with supporters of this bright sport, are fighting for it to be included in the Olympic Games program. As a result of the analysis of the extended guide interview of 14 Ukrainian and 16 American athletes, it became clear that their opinions regarding the philosophy of modern Olympism were divided. This is how Ukrainian sportswomen claim that the philosophy of modern Olympism glorifies and unites into a harmonious whole the highest qualities of spirit, will, soul, mind and body, forms respect for universal fundamental ethical principles and puts sport at the service of harmonious human development. American athletes think somewhat differently: they partially agree with the quotes philosophy of modern Olympism, but believe that it has many flaws that need to be corrected (doping, politicization and illegal betting).

Геймификация в образовании как фактор формирования актуальных профессиональных компетенций

The article considers aspects of the use of gamification in education as a factor in the formation of professional competencies. In the context of learning, gamification is understood as a certain technology associated with the introduction of game components into the educational process based on the use of algorithms that were previously used in various computer gaming programs. Such trends in educational practice, in the context of the use of gamification, as the systematization of practical experience in the use of gamification and the development of its theoretical and methodological foundations are highlighted; the focus on achieving certain educational results is the formation of professional competencies within the framework of educational activities; the use of gamification in teaching various disciplines of the curriculum: foreign languages, engineering specialties, in inclusive educational practice, in management, in marketing, etc. In the context of digital transformation of education, the implementation of gamification forms the necessary motivation for educational activities, expands the boundaries of professional and personal development for all subjects of educational activity. Gamification allows you to implement various psychological and pedagogical techniques and methods to achieve learning goals, including the differentiation of strategic and tactical goals when completing course assignments, maintaining the necessary level of attention and concentration of students, combining various options for the complexity of tasks performed and on this basis identifying the abilities of participants to solve these tasks in a timely manner, modeling and implementing various game situations for the formation and development of certain professional competencies, etc. In the context of the development of the digital economy, globalization and informatization of educational activities, gamification optimally complements the already existing traditional training, with an emphasis on the use of game techniques in education, the involvement of gamification participants in solving collective tasks, achieving personal and group goals when completing the course in the form of a game, revealing their abilities precisely within the framework of team tasks and, thus, forming the necessary relevant professional competencies within the framework of educational activities.