Active Games Research Articles

Playing to Collaborate: Using Cooperative Board Games to Experience and Reflect on Collaboration in Upper Secondary Education

There is a growing interest among researchers in using board games for supporting learning in school contexts. Co-op board games is a relatively new and promising type of games, which seems well-suited for improving students’ collaboration skills. In this paper, we explore how two groups of Danish high school students interact when playing two different co-op games, The Mind and Forbidden Island, and how they reflect upon their shared game experiences. The data collection is based on video observations of group interaction and student interviews, which use stimulated video recall. In this way, we are able not only to describe the students’ perceived outcomes of the gaming activities, but also their in-game practices. Our data analysis is informed by microsociological perspectives (Goffman and Collins), which are used to map the group interaction rituals and social norms of the students’ gaming encounters. Based on the data analysis, we identify two analytical themes, which concern the students’ use of verbal and non-verbal communication practices as well as their socialisation processes. The findings suggest that co-op games may be used as a valuable educational tool for qualifying high school students’ collaboration skills as well as strengthening their group relations. The students especially valued playing The Mind, which they tried playing for multiple game rounds. Based on these findings, we discuss recommendations for the further use and study of co-op board games in educational settings.

Effects of Game-Based Mathematics Learning on Students’ Academic Achievement

In the evolving landscape of education, creative ways to improve student engagement and academic performance are being investigated more and more. Because traditional teaching approaches frequently fail to hold students' attention, educators are forced to look for substitutes that can create a more dynamic and engaged learning environment. Amidst this change, there has been an increase in interest in methods that enhance academic performance while also making learning fun. This study looks into the effects of game-based learning on the academic achievement of Grade 8 students in Mathematics at the University of La Salette High School. Employing a Quasi-experimental design, specifically the pretest-posttest control group design was adopted using two intact groups. A total of 79 students, divided into control (38 students) and experimental (41 students) groups, participated in the study. The control group received instruction through traditional teaching methods such as board works, seat works, assignments and weekly quiz, while the experimental group engaged in various teacher-made, non-digital mathematical games such as games such as Probability Trio: A Three-Game Challenge, Case Quest: The Million Peso Challenge derived from deal or no deal gameshow, Card Category Conundrum, a card game activity and more activities. The main instrument used in this research is a 50-item researcher-made Mathematics Achievement Test. The test underwent a series of steps of validation and the reliability coefficient was also determined (KR-20 = 0.9141). Statistical analysis included paired samples t-tests, independent t-tests, and Cohen’s D to determine significant differences in mean scores and the effect size of the game-based strategy. Results indicated that both groups showed progress from their pretest to posttest scores; however, the experimental group demonstrated a significantly higher average gain of 7.1 compared to the control group's gain of 3. This suggests that game-based learning positively impacts students' mathematical achievement. Pretest scores were comparable between groups, but posttest results revealed a substantial difference favoring the experimental group. The findings highlight the effectiveness of game-based learning in improving academic achievement, with a large effect size indicated by Cohen's D. In light of these findings, the study recommends that mathematics educators integrate game-based activities into their instruction to enhance student performance and confidence in Mathematics. Continuous updating of activities, curriculum development that incorporates game-based learning, and professional development for educators are also advised. Engaging parents in supporting game-based learning at home and conducting further research with larger sample sizes to explore digital game effects are suggested for future studies.

Management of children with acute post-viral cough: a primary care experience with levodropropizine.

Acute post-viral cough (APVC) is a disturbing complaint that may also affect the quality of life. As a result, APVC requires an adequate managing with antitussive medications. In this regard, levodropropizine is an effective and safe peripheral antitussive drug. The present retrospective observational study collected data from children with APVC and treated with levodropropizine for up to seven days. Cough intensity and frequency, impact on children's and parents' sleep, school and games, treatment days, satisfaction, and adverse events were considered. Data from 92 children (mean age 5.5 years) were analyzed globally. Levodropropizine reduced cough intensity and frequency in most children and improved school and game activities and sleep quality in children and their parents. The treatment was safe. Most parents were highly satisfied with the results. This experience showed that levodropropizine was an effective and safe remedy for children with acute post-viral cough.

Psychological and physiological benefits of horticultural therapy for Chinese older adults.

Gardening as a leisure activity has been shown to be potentially beneficial for older adults, this study aimed to assess the physiological and psychological impacts of a specific horticultural activity, watering indoor plants, compared with playing a computer game - the Klondike Solitaire Card Game. This crossover study included 100 older adults recruited from a nursing care facility for older people in Shanghai, China. They were allocated to either engage in watering indoor plants (horticultural group) or playing a computer game (control group). For the inclusion criteria, screening for cognitive function was conducted to exclude those with severe cognitive impairments, thereby focusing on those capable of participating fully in the study activities. Brainwave activities, blood pressure, and psychological states were measured through pre- and post-test questionnaires to evaluate the physiological and psychological effects. The activity of watering indoor plants was associated with significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, in contrast to the computer game activity. Additionally, participants in the horticultural group showed increased brainwave mean values, indicating heightened relaxation and focus, while decreases were observed in the control group. The experimental group reported reduced anxiety scores, along with increased feelings of comfort and relaxation, and also exhibited significantly higher meditation levels, which indicates a profound mental relaxation effect. Our findings suggest that engaging in indoor horticultural activities, such as watering houseplants for 10minutes, can reduce mental and physical stress levels in older adults.

보드게임 활동이 초등학생의 다중지능 향상에 미치는 효과분석

The education of elementary school students promotes the overall development of children and induces a positive attitude toward learning. Board games that stimulate interest and motivation in learning have been widely used in recent years. In this study, a program is implemented for elementary school students attending after-school care centers to explore the effects on multiple intelligence using board games. As a result of verifying whether there is a difference in multiple intelligence between the experimental group and the control group after the board game, all areas were improved. However, in music intelligence and physical exercise intelligence, the improvement effect of the control group appeared. Therefore, other factors other than the effect of the board game must have worked. In other areas, there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups, demonstrating improved effectiveness through board game activities. In addition, by confirming that it is effective in maintaining and improving the strength intelligence in the experimental group, this study provides implications for the use of board games as a learning tool that induces children's interest and fun in the future.

Humorous Potential of Board Games for Children of Senior Preschool Age

Aim. The aim of the study is to determine the humorous potential of modern board games for senior preschool children which are used in preschool education institutions. Methods. The aims were achieved through the implementation of methods: theoretical (analysis of the psycho-pedagogical, philosophical and source base in the field of game design and children's game theory), empirical (observation of the game process of children with board games, combined analysis of board game sets from different countries) and comprehensive analysis of board game sets for children. Results. It has been determined that the humorous potential can be expressed through each structural component of a board game: content (plot, characters and rules), conventional graphic plan (images, symbols, icons, colour, reality and conventionality of the image), equipment (character chips, character figures, tokens, field etc.). It has been proved that humour is a social and game construct of the modern theory and practice of game design. Conclusion. It has been concluded that the humorous potential of board games for children has a significant developmental effect in the organisation of game activities. The use of humorous board games provides a positive microclimate in the team, promotes the development of emotional intelligence in children, enriches their cognitive and sensory experience. Humorous board games can be used both for organising the education of older preschool children, preparing them for school, and for organising recreation, leisure, and raising children's play culture.

Analysis of Tactical-Technical Attack Performance Factors: A Case Study of a Professional Women's Handball Team

Game analysis based on tactical-technical sports performance provides important information for coaches to periodize and evaluate team processes more accurately. The aim of this study was to analyze the probabilities of success in offensive situations by a Brazilian professional women’s handball team. The method used was a quantitative, descriptive and case study approach, which was a professional women’s handball team with national and international achievements. Data collection was based on the Handball Observation System, which allowed a total of 726 game actions to be evaluated from the two target competitions (world and national), 143 for the Women’s Super Globe and 583 for the national handball league. The data was analyzed using the Lince program, which helps with video analysis (games from different sports), optimizing data verification, and the SPSS 23.0 software, using multinomial regression. The results showed that the team had 10.538 more probabilities of scoring when using basic tactical means, compared to 1-on-1 actions (CR = 1.061) and complex tactical means (CR = 1). The offensive organization showed greater probabilities (OR = 1.668) of scoring with the full team, in attacks from the central area of the court of less than 9 meters (OR = 1.917) and with shots between 21 and 40 minutes (OR = 1.393). There were also 7.968 more chances for the opposing goalkeeper to make a save when the team attacked with basic tactical means and 2.562 more chances for him to save the shot between 21 and 40 minutes.

The influence of game activity and motor activity on the state of health of esports players

The influence of game activity and motor activity on the state of health of esports players

Implementation Of The PERSIJU Program (Half-Day Friday Camp) For The Project Of Strengthening The Pancasila Student Profile In Early Childhood Education

Preschool Children are children who still need examples and direction in carrying out daily activities. Considering that ages 5-6 years interact more with the environment around them. One of the PERSIJU activities (Friday Half Day Camping) which is routinely held every 2 weeks. Persiju is an activity that gives children freedom to interact, practice socializing and practice independence and solidarity with their friends. The aim of this research is to train children's independence, socialization and hone the social skills of children aged 5-6 years as well as supporting and inhibiting factors. The research method used is qualitative. Data collection techniques are observation, interviews with supervisors, school principals and class teachers and documentation. The results of the research show that children are very enthusiastic about taking part in Persiju activities held at school, children actively participate in a series of Persiju game activities both independently and in groups which are carried out outside the classroom with the teacher. The role and support or permission of parents is one of the supporting factors in training independence, as well as honing the social skills of children aged 5-6 years, social skills that appear to include conversation, mutual understanding, cooperation, openness, empathy, motivation, positive feelings and feelings of equality. The inhibiting factor is facilities and infrastructure that still need to be added.

Visuomotor predictors of interception.

Intercepting moving targets is a fundamental skill in human behavior, influencing various domains such as sports, gaming, and other activities. In these contexts, precise visual processing and motor control are crucial for adapting and navigating effectively. Nevertheless, there are still some gaps in our understanding of how these elements interact while intercepting a moving target. This study explored the dynamic interplay among eye movements, pupil size, and interceptive hand movements, with visual and motion uncertainty factors. We developed a simple visuomotor task in which participants used a joystick to interact with a computer-controlled dot that moved along two-dimensional trajectories. This virtual system provided the flexibility to manipulate the target's speed and directional uncertainty during chase trials. We then conducted a geometric analysis based on optimal angles for each behavior, enabling us to distinguish between simple tracking and predictive trajectories that anticipate future positions of the moving target. Our results revealed the adoption of a strong interception strategy as participants approached the target. Notably, the onset and amount of optimal interception strategy depended on task parameters, such as the target's speed and frequency of directional changes. Furthermore, eye-tracking data showed that participants continually adjusted their gaze speed and position, continuously adapting to the target's movements. Finally, in successful trials, pupillary responses predicted the amount of optimal interception strategy while exhibiting an inverse relationship in trials without collisions. These findings reveal key interactions among visuomotor parameters that are crucial for solving complex interception tasks.

Компьютерно-игровая зависимость у студентов

<p>The article addresses the pressing issue of computer gaming addiction in the modern information society. It examines the extent of gambling addiction among students, including identifying the frequency and duration of gaming activity, as well as the manifestation of aggressiveness and depression associated with gambling addiction. The author's “Computer Gaming Addiction” questionnaire, which includes scales of addiction, aggressiveness, and depression, was used as empirical research method. Statistics method: φ* Fisher criterion. The study involved 1st-4th year students of the East Kazakhstan University named after Sarsen Amanzholov, aged 17 to 35 years. A total of 198 people participated, of which 77% were female. The study provides evidence of a connection between computer gaming addiction and aggression, indicating more pronounced aggressiveness among individuals with high levels of gaming addiction. The results suggest that the male sample is more susceptible to gambling addiction, and the associated aggressiveness can manifest in real life.</p>

Проблемы диагностики субъектности в проектной группе

<p>A child-adult group building an educational project is an effective environment for the formation of adolescent agency. Agency is аn important parameter of professionalism and maturity in any work. However, so far, the diagnostics of agency has not been sufficiently developed; conceptually grounded indicators of agency in activity have not been formulated. The aim of our research is to develop indicators of agency and create diagnostic techniques based on the thinking-activity approach. Agency is not an ability, but a certain level of mastery of activity, allowing grasping it as a whole, managing it and developing it. Either an individual person or a community-group or a community consisting of individual groups can be an agent. There are two main phases in the process of the agency formation: agency initiation and agency action. From the point of view of project agency formation, we can distinguish three activities which form it: game, educational and project activities. The types of agency corresponding to them form a hierarchy.</p>

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FORMING INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS OF SENIOR PRESCHOOLERS DURING GAMING ACTIVITIES

The interpersonal relationships of senior preschoolers with their peers are constantly changing for objective and subjective reasons related to the educational features of the kindergarten and the relationships that have developed in the family. The nature of interpersonal relationships and the features of their manifestation are subject to additional study, especially when these relationships are manifested during gaming activities. While studying interpersonal relationships, we have taken into account children’s communicative abilities, trust towards each other, their desires, the ability to react to peers, their preferences, interests in play and other factors, which in our opinion, are more significant for obtaining a more complete view of interpersonal relationships. The adjustment of methods for diagnosing interpersonal relationships are emphasized in the article, and targeted game situations, game performances are suggested.

The ethnopragmatics of Akan leave-takings and farewells

Abstract The paper examines leave-takings and farewells as linguistic routines in Akan. It emerged from my previous works on ethnopragmatics of Akan linguistic routines, namely apology, requests, greetings, thanking, advice, compliments, etc. This paper adopted Weigand’s (2010) Mixed Game Model, which deals with dialogic action games. It employs qualitative approaches including interviews, observation, and the recording of natural ethnographic events in the Akan society. These include closings and farewells at funerals, durbars, visits, travelling, arbitrations, folksongs, etc. The paper discusses the ethnosemantics of the leave-takings and farewell expressions. The findings of this paper will contribute to the use of dialogic action games in discussing other linguistic routines. This study will help further research in leave-taking and farewell in other Ghanaian languages.

Correlation of Player and Imaging Characteristics With Severity and Missed Time in National Football League Professional Athletes With Hamstring Strain Injury: A Retrospective Review

Background: Hamstring strain injuries (HSIs) are prevalent in US National Football League (NFL) players, but there is a paucity of information regarding imaging characteristics, injury severity, and player factors associated with time missed and risk of recurrent injury. Purpose: To describe player, football activity, clinical, and imaging characteristics of NFL players with HSIs, as well as determine player characteristics, clinical examination results, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings associated with injury occurrence, severity, and missed time. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A retrospective cohort of NFL players with acute HSI (n = 180) during the 2018-2019 season was identified. Injury data were collected prospectively through a league-wide electronic health record system. Three musculoskeletal radiologists graded MRI muscle injury parameters using the British Athletics Muscle Injury Classification (BAMIC) system. Player, football, clinical, and imaging characteristics were correlated with HSI incidence and severity and with missed time from sport. Results: Of the 1098 HSIs identified during the 2018-2019 season, 416 (37.9%) were randomly sampled, and 180 (43.3%) had diagnostic imaging available. Game activity, preseason period, and wide receiver and defensive secondary positions disproportionately contributed to HSI. The biceps femoris was the most commonly injured muscle (n = 132, 73.3%), followed by the semimembranosus (n = 24, 13.3%) and semitendinosus (n = 17, 9.4%) muscles. The most common injury site was the distal third of the biceps femoris and semitendinosus muscles (n = 60, 45.5% and n = 10, 58.8%, respectively) and central part of the semimembranosus muscle (n = 17, 70.8%). Nearly half of the injuries (n = 83, 46.1%) were BAMIC grade 2; 25.6% (n = 46), grade 3; and 17.8% (n = 32), grade 4. MRI showed sciatic nerve abnormality in 30.6% (n = 55) of all HSIs and 81.3% (n = 26) of complete tendon injuries. BAMIC grade correlated with both median days and games missed. Combined biceps femoris and semitendinosus injuries resulted in the highest median days missed (27 days). Conclusion: Among NFL players with acute HSIs, the most common injury was a moderate-severity injury of the distal biceps femoris. BAMIC grade was associated with missed time.

The structure of functional training of athletes as a ensuring factor competitive activities in sports games

Assessment of the level of structural components of the functional fitness of athletes' bodies is one of the priority factors for improving the training system in handball, because it allows you to create the necessary conditions for the rational management of the athletes' physical condition and the course of adaptive changes, which ensure that the level of preparedness corresponds to the given sports result in the competitive period. The goal was to study the peculiarities of the formation of the structure of the functional readiness of the body of young men aged 16-17 years who specialize in handball, within the preparatory period of the macrocycle. The analysis of integral indicators characterizing the level of the physical condition of the body of handball players revealed positive dynamics of the level of general physical capacity, the functional state of the cardiorespiratory system, the general level of functional preparedness and adaptive capabilities of the cardiovascular system. All indicators corresponded to the "above average" functional class. Experimental data confirmed the effectiveness of planning specialized training programs that are purposefully related to the volume and functional orientation of the training session in the structural components of the preparatory period of the macrocycle. The use of a computer program made it possible to determine the general level of functional fitness and the state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of athletes, which is important for monitoring their physical readiness for the competitive game season.

Stimulasi Kemampuan Motorik Halus Anak Usia 5-6 Tahun Melalui Kegiatan Permainan Kolase Loose Part

Stimulating fine motor skills in children aged 5-6 years has important benefits in supporting the development of basic skills needed for daily and academic activities. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Loose Part collage game in improving children's fine motor skills. This research was conducted at Restu Bunda Kindergarten with a sample size of 10 children aged 5-6 years who were selected using purposive sampling, taking into account criteria such as age and balanced fine motor skills. The Loose Part collage game involves the use of various materials and small objects that can be arranged and arranged according to the child's imagination, to stimulate hand-eye coordination and other manipulative abilities. The method used in this research is an experimental method with a pre-test and post-test design in the control group and experimental group. Pretest research was carried out on March 15, 2024, and posttest was carried out on May 5, 2024. Research findings showed that children who were involved in the Loose Part collage game experienced a significant increase in fine motor skills compared to the control group. Therefore, the Loose Part collage game activity can be recommended as an effective method for stimulating fine motor skills in children aged 5-6 years.

Enhancing the integration of information and communication technologies in preschool education: Pedagogical training for future teachers

This research addresses the critical challenge of integrating information and communication technologies into the educational process, aiming to enhance the practical application of these technologies in preschool education. The article's aim is to develop a model for the pedagogical use of ICT with older preschool children, focusing on the professional development of teachers. The study employs A. Mehrabyan and N. Epstein's “Emotional Response Scale” to measure the responsiveness and sensitivity of future preschool educators. The article presents a comprehensive model for incorporating information and communication technologies in pedagogical activities with older preschool children. This model emphasizes creating a friendly atmosphere that fosters cognitive interest and development. Key components include natural video installations with corresponding sounds, cognitive and gaming activities displayed on screens to encourage collective problem-solving, viewing master classes and educational programs, and organizing literary hours with engaging visual and auditory elements. The proposed model aims to harmonize the psycho-emotional well-being of children and create optimal conditions for their cultural and cognitive development during their preschool years. This approach holds significant practical importance for the education system and overall societal well-being.

Proteus effect avatar profiles: Associations with disordered gaming and activity levels

Gaming avatars can influence users’ attitudes and behaviors and manifest as the proteus effect. The present study examined proteus effect profiles among 571 gamers and their associations with disordered gaming and physical activity. Latent class analysis identified three profiles: non-influenced gamers, emotion-perception influenced gamers (highest proteus effect), and emotion-behavior influenced gamers (moderate proteus effect). The high proteus effect group exhibited significantly higher gaming disorder symptoms at baseline and 6 months compared to other profiles. Proteus effect profiles did not significantly differ in physical activity levels. However, higher disordered gaming and proteus effect predicted lower activity over time. The strong proteus effect group’s avatar immersion may increase gaming disorder risks. Minimal avatar influence for the non-influenced gamers appears protective. While proteus effect profiles do not directly relate to activity, amplified disordered gaming can reduce active lifestyles. Overall, findings demonstrate how avatars differentially affect gamers’ experiences and functioning through proteus-induced changes.

Effects of board games on balance in association with cognition in community-dwelling older adults

Objectives: Falls among the elderly are a prevalent concern. Maintaining balance and preventing falls necessitate cognitive processes, such as information processing speed and executive functions. The objective was to determine the impacts of board games on cognition, balance, and risk of falls among community-dwelling elders. Methods: Sixty-four elders aged 65 years and above, with mini–mental state examination (MMSE), scores above 26 and Berg balance scale (BBS) scores between 41 and 52, were recruited with a sample size of 64 divided into two groups, 32 in each group. Participants were randomized through the sealed envelope technique into experimental (engaging in board games) and control groups (not involved in board game activity). The BBS, MMSE, timed upand-go test (TUGT), and dynamic gait index (DGI) were assessed at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks. Results: Participants engaging in board games (mean age 69.93 ± 4.77) demonstrated significant improvements in cognition, with MMSE scores increasing from 26.8 ± 0.83 at baseline to 28.6 ± 0.74 after eight weeks (P < 0.001). BBS scores enhanced from 47.2 ± 1.84 to 49.8 ± 5.15 (P < 0.001), DGI scores improved from 19.65 ± 1.49 to 21.37 ± 1.47 (P < 0.001), and TUGT scores decreased from 10.40 ± 0.69 to 10.22 ± 0.67 (P < 0.001). Mixed analysis of variance revealed significant differences between experimental and control groups for MMSE (P < 0.001), BBS (P < 0.001), DGI (P < 0.001), and TUGT (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The eight-week interactive physical-cognitive training program involving board games was found to enhance cognitive performance, mobility, and balance and decrease fall risk among the elderly.