Game-based Learning Research Articles

Let’s get on-board: a practical framework for designing and implementing educational board games in K-12 classrooms

Educational board games are a promising tool for implementing game-based learning to improve the teaching-learning process. However, the absence of comprehensive scholarly guidance on designing educational board games impedes the effective implementation of game-based learning in classrooms. The sparsely available studies on game design frameworks often confine themselves to the design of the educational game itself, without including guidelines for the classroom integration of such games within the design framework. Additionally, the literature often neglects that teachers, burdened by limited time and excessive workload, are often the sole participants in the game design process. To address these gaps, we introduce a practical framework for educators to design and seamlessly integrate educational board games in their classrooms. Our approach prioritizes minimizing additional teacher workload while using game-based learning to foster student-led problem-solving sessions and game revision. Drawing from game design principles and existing literature on game-based learning, we propose a comprehensive framework that guides educators through the design and implementation of educational board games tailored for conducting problem-solving sessions. The framework is validated and refined using qualitative analysis of teacher and student feedback after its seamless integration into the regular mathematics instruction and curriculum of a Philippine K-12 high school. Results indicate positive student experiences and highlight the framework’s efficacy in promoting student engagement, learning outcomes, and teacher convenience. Thematic analysis of student feedback highlights key design preferences and game features that enhance student experiences in GBL sessions. The study contributes to the advancement of GBL methodologies by offering practical guidelines for independent use by educators and promoting exchanges between teacher colleagues. Overall, the proposed framework offers a systematic and feasible approach to designing and implementing educational board games, fostering effective learning experiences in diverse educational contexts.

Effects of Rewards on Motivation and Student Achievement in Digital Game-Based Learning in Teaching English as a Foreign Language for Primary School Pupils in Kazakhstan

Effects of Rewards on Motivation and Student Achievement in Digital Game-Based Learning in Teaching English as a Foreign Language for Primary School Pupils in Kazakhstan

Learning Vocabulary via Video Games: A Case Study of Saudi University Students

The main aim of the study is to examine the impact of video games on vocabulary acquisition among Saudi university students, as well as what types of games are most effective and students’ perceptions of their use. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving 100 students divided into control and experimental groups. Over twelve weeks, the experimental group used video game-based learning activities, while the control group followed traditional methods. Vocabulary gains were measured using pre-tests and post-tests. Qualitative data from questionnaires and interviews with the participants have supplemented the results. The findings show that the students who used video games reported greater engagement, motivation, and reduced language anxiety, appreciating the contextual learning and immediate feedback provided by video games. These findings support the use of video games as effective tools for vocabulary acquisition, offering an interactive and immersive learning experience. Students’ positive perceptions further highlight the benefits of integrating video games into language learning. Future research should investigate the long-term effects of video game-based learning and its influence on other language skills, as well as explore different game types in various educational settings. This study provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers seeking to enhance language education.

Implementation of Educational Technology Based on Gamification in Interactive Monopoly Games in the 4.0 Era

Recent advancements in technology and information have profoundly influenced the realm of education, prompting a transformation in the learning process. This shift has become imperative due to the impact of the pandemic a few years ago, which necessitated the utilization of online technology for education. Given this situation, the conventional, monotonous learning approach now requires diversification to cater to various learning preferences. This evolution aligns with the need to tailor learning methods to students’ current interests and hobbies. Consequently, the adoption of educational technology based on gamification in the era of Industry 4.0 emerges as a solution to address these educational demands. There are several strategies to implement gamification effectively, aimed at fostering students’ enthusiasm for learning. In essence, Industry 4.0 has ushered in profound changes across all sectors by optimizing resources and production costs. The research method employed here is gamification, which revolves around the concept of game-based learning. The outcome of this research is an interactive monopoly game designed for integration into the learning process.

The Impact of Collective Pre-game Organization in the Perceived Experience of Digital Management Simulations in Higher Education

This study investigates the impact of pre-game preparation on the perceptions and outcomes of participants in a digital simulation game. Conducted on 542 students from 28 management schools, the research explores how team organization and strategic planning in the early stages influence game experience and performance in a business simulation context. The findings reveal that effective pre-game preparation significantly enhances both the participants’ perception of the game and their performance outcomes. These results underline the importance of structured team organization and the strategic definition of roles before the game begins. This study also contributes to the literature on simulation games by highlighting the crucial role of pre-game activities, especially in team-based settings. In addition, it offers practical insights for educators on optimizing the use of simulation games by focusing on preparation and organization strategies that mimic real-world business environments. This research not only fills a gap in our understanding of the preparatory phase of game-based learning but also enhances our knowledge of how simulation games can be effectively integrated into management education.

Introducing pre-service teachers to game-based learning

Game-based learning has increased research and interest in teacher education and teacher pedagogy. However, there is still much to learn about how teachers understand and feel about game-based learning pedagogy in the classroom. This study utilized a quantitative research methodology to better understand the changes in beliefs and attitudes toward game-based learning of teachers before and after experiencing game-based learning opportunities first-hand. The participants in this study were ninety-six pre-service teachers enrolled in a Child Growth and Development course at a public Hispanic Serving Intitution in South Central Texas University. Findings from this study indicate that pre-service teachers are comfortable using game-based learning pedagogy prior to any game-based learning interventions. Specifically, game knowledge, game content knowledge, and game pedagogical content knowledge, had a strong positive relationship with learning opportunities, attitudes towards game-based learning and overall acceptance of digital game-based learning score. Access to game-based learning experiences significantly increased teachers’ game pedagogical knowledge, game content knowledge, and experience with games knowledge. Overall, pre-service teachers’ personal experiences with gaming and attitude towards gaming is one of the key factors that contributes to their positive attitudes towards game-based learning and their ability to see the learning opportunities games have in their future classrooms.

Utilizing Game-Based Learning in Literature Searching Instruction for Pharmacy Students

ObjectiveTo determine whether gamifying librarian-led literature searching instruction improved student performance on an authentic literature searching assessment. Secondary objectives included determination of effect on email requests for assistance and student confidence in literature searching abilities. MethodsLiterature searching in PubMed is taught by a librarian to first-year pharmacy students in a drug information course over a 2-week period. The librarian chose to implement 2 game-based learning activities in the live lecture sessions: a crossword puzzle and an escape room. To increase engagement, students were encouraged to work collaboratively as a team during class. To evaluate the impact of incorporating gamification into literature searching instruction, the authors evaluated student grades on a literature searching assignment, reviewed the number of emails received asking for assistance, and evaluated student confidence in literature searching. ResultsStudents scored higher on their literature searching assignment after the implementation of game-based instruction. The average grade on this assignment in 2022 was 90.1% compared with 2021 when the average was 79.9%. The average of 90.6% in 2023 also showed statistically significant improvement compared with 2021. Email requests decreased and student confidence increased when comparing 2021 outcomes with those in 2022 and 2023. ConclusionOverall, the gamification of literature searching instruction in this course appears to have increased student assignment scores and was well-received by the students.

Cultural Heritage Manifestation in Computer Role-Playing Games for Enhancing Museum Experience: A Model Proposal

ABSTRACT This article proposes a model for integrating computer role-playing games with museum experiences to enhance cultural heritage learning with a particular focus on design. Centered at the Izmir Archaeology Museum, the study delves into the design of a serious game aimed at enriching both the educational and experiential facets of museum visits. The model highlights the use of gameplay components and design patterns to manifest tangible and intangible heritage content, thereby promoting visitor awareness and understanding of cultural heritage. Through a provisional game scenario based on the museum's prehistoric artifact exhibition, the study illustrates how a gameplay design approach that is informed by heritage content displayed in the museum can be prototyped. The proposed model not only aims to make museum visits more engaging, but also seeks to contribute to the broader discourse on game design, game-based learning, and museum experience.

A mathematical formulation of learner cognition for personalised learning experiences

The paper focuses on the assessment of cognitive skills within Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs). In response to the global shift to remote learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic, VLEs, which include learning management systems (LMS) and online collaboration platforms, gained prominence. The proposed work leverages an established Cattell–Horn–Carroll (CHC) theory to propose eight metrics, which collectively form a part of Cognitive Evaluation Metrics (CEM). The proposed metrics introduce a novel computational approach for multimode evaluation of learners’ cognitive abilities for each learning task within a learning environment. The paper details the formalism for the evaluation of the metrics and makes a contribution towards the potential of the proposed methodology to evaluate cognitive abilities. Additionally, the work implements CEM integration into the learner module of a Game-Based Learning (GBL) environment. Analysis of simulations in the GBL environment, along with statistical analysis, provides insights into the normal distribution of cognitive metrics. This reveals diverse ranges in various abilities such as long or short term memory, working memory, reasoning, attention, and processing speed. The paper also explores the impact of virtual assistants, which highlights their limited relevance to enhance cognitive abilities but serve as valuable on-demand support resources.

A Concept Centric Synthesis Matrix Framework (SMF) on the application of Game-based learning (GBL) as an emerging paradigm in the curriculum of dentistry

A Concept Centric Synthesis Matrix Framework (SMF) on the application of Game-based learning (GBL) as an emerging paradigm in the curriculum of dentistry

A board game ludography analysis for Game-Based Learning in Astronomy, Astrophysics and Space Science

Space exploration and astronomical objects are extensively used in modern board games. These games can be an entertaining way to present educational contents on Astrophysics-related topics, by acknowledging the importance and beauty of Space. However, careful consideration of mechanics, messages, and themes is required to achieve this goal. We present a classification system for the presence of Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Space Science in the 2000 most popular modern board games, where games are categorised according to their complexity and actual scientific contents. This initial mapping defines a potential Astronomy, Astrophysics and Space Science ludography, i.e. a set of board games for STEM educators to create learning activities about such topics, using easily attainable commercial products.

The use of game-based learning strategies for dermatology and dermoscopy education: a cross-sectional study by the International Dermoscopy Society (IDS) survey

Abstract Introduction Dermoscopy is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of various skin conditions. Dermoscopy increases the sensitivity and specificity for skin cancer diagnosis, as well as infectious, inflammatory, and hair diseases. However, mastering dermoscopy intricacies poses challenges. In this context, innovative educational methods are sought, including game-based learning (GBL) strategies. Objective To describe current perceptions, knowledge and usage of GBL strategies in dermoscopy education; and identify strengths and challenges to enhance their utilization. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted by the International Dermoscopy Society (IDS). A web-based survey with 25-questions was distributed among the IDS members between October 2022 and April 2023. Responses were collected and analyzed using SPSS Statistics 26. Results A total of 801 responses were received. Of these, 46.6% responders were unfamiliar with gamification and serious games. Among those acquainted, 56.3% reported using GBL strategies for education. Younger participants were more likely to use GBL strategies (p = 0.015). Participants familiar with GBL believed it enhances medical education (78.5%) but not as a sole replacement for traditional methods (96%). For dermoscopy education, 22.2% had used GBL strategies, with Kahoot (35.5%) and You Dermoscopy (24.1%) being the most commonly used. Respondents found gaming strategies to be fun (95%), motivating (91%), and valuable for e-learning (94%). Conclusion Results from this survey demonstrate favorable perception towards GBL strategies in dermatology education, including dermoscopy. While there are ongoing challenges in validation, GBL strategies are promising and valuable tools that can aid the learning and teaching experience. Addressing implementation barriers and validating existing games could optimize GBL's impact on dermatology education.

Effect of theme game-based learning on psychiatric violence risk assessment and response knowledge, skills, and self-confidence of nursing students: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundTheme game-based learning has the potential to enrich student learning experiences, leading to improved learning outcomes. Yet, there remains a research gap regarding its application in addressing psychiatric violence, leaving uncertainties about the comparative advantages of theme game-based learning over situational simulation learning strategies. ObjectivesThe goal was to measure the effect of integrating theme game-based learning into psychiatric violence risk assessment and response training on nursing student psychiatric violence-related knowledge, skills, and self-confidence. DesignThis study was a randomized controlled, pre-test, and post-test trial. SettingThe study was conducted at a medical university in Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. ParticipantsThere were 103 third-year nursing undergraduates (intervention group = 51, control group = 52) in the study. MethodsAn Objective Structured Clinical Exam and the Workplace Violence Management Ability Assessment Questionnaire for Intern Nursing Students were used to assess student skills. The knowledge test and the Confidence in Coping with Patient Aggression Instrument were used to measure student knowledge and self-confidence level before and after intervention. ResultsNursing students in the theme game-based group demonstrated significantly superior skills and confidence in violence risk assessment and response compared with students in the situational simulation group (p < 0.001, p = 0.039, p = 0.006, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in knowledge of violence risk assessment and response between the two groups (p = 0.510). ConclusionTheme game-based learning in psychiatric violence risk assessment and response training appeared effective in enhancing the violence management abilities of nursing students.

Empowering Youth through Play: Promoting Awareness of Sexual Grooming among Schoolchildren through Game-based Learning

Sexual grooming is engaging with a child to build a relationship with intentions of sexual exploitation. In some cases, it precedes child sexual abuse. The need for child sex education can be further illustrated by the severity of the trauma that results from the abuse. Hence, it is ideal to recognise the signs of grooming to reduce the risk of child sexual grooming. This project aims to develop an age-appropriate game to assess game-based learning to educate children on preventing sexual grooming. The methodology implemented in this project is the outcome-based methodology. First, a survey was distributed to guide the design of the game and to identify the relevant learning outcomes relating to sex education the respondents wish their children to learn. Based on the results, there are four learning outcomes to be achieved. Second, the genre of the game was determined to be a visual novel. Third, the premise of the game was written. Fourth, assets to enhance the playing experience were either created or sourced online. Fifth, the game mechanics were developed using Godot Engine. Sixth, the game mechanics were play tested iteratively, before and after integration with one another. Seventh, all the mechanics and non-mechanic elements were integrated to complete development. Eighth, the game was play tested online. Pre- and post-test results from the playtest were recorded and evaluated. Using paired samples t-test with a 95% confidence interval, the calculated t-value 12.011 was more significant than the critical t-value of 2.042, and the p-value 0.00001 was lesser than the significance level of 0.05. The result suggests that using the game to create awareness of physical and online grooming towards children was effective.

Upaya Meningkatkan Kebugaran Jasmani Melalui Pendekatan Permainan Tradisional Kelas X-3 SMA Negeri 1 Gedangan Sidoarjo

This study examines the low interest of class X-3 students at SMAN 1 Sidoarjo in physical fitness activities. The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of traditional game-based learning methods in improving students' physical fitness. The research uses an action approach with stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The sample consists of 36 students from class X-3 SMAN 1 Sidoarjo who were observed during the pre-cycle, cycle 1, and cycle 2. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively using percentages. Research findings indicate an improvement in student learning outcomes after the implementation of traditional game-based learning methods in cycles I and II. This suggests that the approach is effective in increasing the level of physical fitness and student participation in physical education activities.

Exploring the potential of pantomime games in medical education: Non-verbal exercise

The primary educational challenge in medical education is the lack of focus on non-verbal communication skills, such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures. This gap is crucial, particularly in multicultural and multilingual contexts where non-verbal cues can bridge language barriers and enhance understanding between healthcare professionals and patients. To address this, our wave explores the potential of integrating art, specifically pantomime games, into medical education as a non-verbal exercise. Inspired by ancient drama and role-play, pantomime games offer an innovative methodology for enhancing non-verbal communication skills. These games help students develop observation, empathy, and ambiguity tolerance—skills essential for effective healthcare delivery. Incorporating art and game-based learning into medical curricula has improved visual perception, personal reflection, and student engagement. The benefits of this integration extend globally, fostering emotional intelligence, creative thinking, and cross-cultural understanding. Educational games create a safe environment for students to experiment, learn from mistakes, and gain practical experience, ultimately reducing training time and instructor load. Moreover, non-verbal communication training can enhance professor-student interactions, improving feedback quality and learning outcomes. To implement these innovations, clear guidelines and effective facilitation are crucial. Educators should provide supportive environments for experimentation and learning, using minimal materials such as open spaces and simple props. High-resource settings can leverage AI technologies for feedback and create mobile applications to modernize the approach. This wave advocates for a student-centered, multimodal communication and learning environment, highlighting the transformative potential of integrating performing arts into medical education to prepare future healthcare providers better.

Postdigital Game-Based Learning: Complexity, Continuity, and Contingency

AbstractDiscourses that establish the potential learning benefits of digital games for schooling too often focus on learning as a product of relations between student and gameplay, adopting overly deterministic positions that have long been associated with digital technologies and education. This paper draws on ideas from postdigitalism to problematise such narrow conceptualisations of digital game-based learning (DGBL). The analysis of one Australian school’s experience of incorporating digital games into their senior English curriculum provides a break from broad generations and allows a focus on the web of relations within which digital games exist when deployed in formal school contexts. An analytical framework which draws on three ideas emerging from postdigital studies is utilized to explore relations of power through which digital games interact as they are played and studied in schools. This analysis suggests that unitary logics about learning and digital games are insufficient and highlights the importance of engaging with the complexity, continuity and contingency in DGBL contexts to combat the hyperbole that surrounds digital games and education. Postdigital attention on actual instances of digital game deployment reveals the fragility of all knowledge claims about these technologies, contributing to a more critical discourse regarding their potential to impact school learning.

Computational thinking with game design: An action research study with middle school students

AbstractMiddle school students often enter Computer Science (CS) classes without previous CS or Computational Thinking (CT) instruction. This study evaluated how Code.org’s block-based programming curriculum affects middle school students’ CT skills and attitudes toward CT and CS. Sixteen students participated in the study. This was a mixed methods action research study that used pre- and post-tests, surveys, artifacts, and interviews as data sources. Descriptive statistics, paired samples t-tests, and inductive thematic analysis were administered. Findings showed a statistically significant increase in participants’ algorithmic thinking, debugging, and pattern recognition skills but not in abstraction skills. Attitudes toward CT and CS improved but the difference was not statistically significant. Qualitative themes revealed benefits of game-based learning to promote CT skills, collaboration to promote successful error debugging, and enjoyment of programming resulting from a balance between structured guidance and creative freedom. Findings emphasize the importance of low-threshold and engaging strategies to introduce novice learners to CT and CS.

PM&R Connections: A pilot study evaluating the adoptability and impact of a serious educational game on trainees at a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation program.

To enhance engagement and educational outcomes, game-based learning has been introduced into undergraduate and graduate medical education programs. Using a free website, "PM&R Connections", a serious game, was created to provide trainees with an alternative method of reviewing content to identify knowledge gaps to direct studying. The game was used by 19/33 trainees and 92.3% of users required <10 minutes to complete a puzzle. 76.9% of users found the tool helpful, 69.2% recommended the game, and 92.3% desired more puzzles to be developed. Confusion on how to play and intimidation were the most reported barriers to play, and only 46% of users changed their study habits. The positive feedback and desire for more puzzles to be developed provide a foundation to further develop the game.

Pengembangan Media Monopoli sebagai Sarana Belajar dan Bermain Siswa Sekolah Dasar dalam Materi Perkembangan Hewan dan Tumbuhan

The background is the need for an innovative approach in education to facilitate students' understanding of complex concepts. Monopoly media is developed to increase student engagement and facilitate understanding of concepts. Through interactive and interesting game elements. This study aims to develop Monopoly game-based learning media for animal and plant development material in Elementary Schools by applying the ADDIE model, which includes the analysis, design, and development stages. In the analysis stage, identification of needs and potential problems in learning is carried out. The design stage involves creating game components that are in accordance with the learning material. The development stage includes media production and validation, including the creation of game boards, question cards, and mystery cards. The subjects in this study were elementary school students, data collection techniques were carried out by interviewing and observing and data analysis was carried out using the Miles and Huberman data analysis techniques. The results of this development are expected to enrich students' learning experiences, improve collaboration, and motivate them in understanding animal and plant development material.