Puzzle Game Research Articles

Teaching agile: A case study approach with an optional game

Learning Agile philosophy is essential for system analysis and design or software development courses. Organizations operate in highly dynamic environments, constantly needing to adapt, change, or create innovative Information Systems. Agile provides guiding values and principles that enable systems analysts to support organizations in responding to change and developing, modifying, or updating information systems. By learning Scrum, an Agile-inspired framework, students can assume the role of systems analyst, organizing activities and working in teams iteratively to solve complex problems using Agile principles. This hands-on approach helps students understand the importance of stakeholder involvement, constant scrutiny, and adjustment to achieve frequent system updates. Hence, this case study immerses students in a scenario where they apply the Scrum framework, with an optional puzzle game to introduce students to agile philosophy through its manifesto. Learning by doing has proven effective for complex or dry topics, with students responding positively to this method. Interview data collected at the end of the activity showed high student satisfaction and a strong sense of knowledge acquisition while enjoying the class. Additionally, integrating a game to internalize agile concepts with a teaching case to apply concepts presents a rich educational approach that can be adapted to other Information Systems topics.

Downloading Creativity Mods: Improving Our Problem-Solving Skill Transfer

Gaming has become ingrained in our modern culture, with many students playing more than 10,000 hours of video games by the time they graduate from high school (McGonigal, 2011). One hundred and 54 participants were randomly assigned to one of three game conditions: perspective-shift game, puzzle game, or video. Our findings suggested that only 30-min of game play that required strategic perspective-shifting significantly increased creativity, however, these results were not driven by participants self-identifying themselves as either gamers or non-gamers. This study directly addresses the gap in evaluating the far transfer of skill sets developed during gameplay to other tasks or contexts.

The use of Anagram Game to Improve Vocabulary at the Second Grade Student of SD IT ULIL ALBAB KAMAL

Speaking is the art of communicating in social situations so that people compete to learn languages ​​because this is an interesting goal for them to achieve. Communicating using English is very popular in the current era of globalization. English has many benefits for increasing your chances of making friends with other people from various countries and for getting a job abroad. Many schools from elementary school to university level have English learning materials. In this case, the research took place at SD IT Ulil Albab Kamal and focused on vocabulary, because the students' vocabulary was lacking so that they were not fluent in speaking English and did not have the courage to speak. The researcher also concluded questions that focus on the problem that occurred, namely: 1. How does the Second Grade Students of SD IT Ulil Albab Kamal improve vocabulary through anagram game? 2. How do the students respond toward the use of anagram game in the class? With this problem, researchers introduced the Anagram game and the methodology by using Descriptive Qualitative Method. Anagram game is a brain-teasing puzzle game, where players have to change one word into another word by rearranging the letters. This game is very good for improving vocabulary skills and prolonging memory for new words in English. Researchers used two instruments, namely observation and interviews. From the instruments used in collecting data in the field, producing conclusions by using the Anagram game, the Second Grade Students at SD IT Ulil Albab Kamal can understand the meaning of words when communicating by using English

Exergaming interventions for older adults: The effect of game characteristics on gameplay

PurposeExergames can be used to train physical and cognitive abilities and have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of falls in older adults. However, there is limited evidence about how people play exergames and how gameplay is affected by game settings and, thus, the potential training effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of repeated exergaming sessions over 4 weeks and two game settings (difficulty level and game speed) on gameplay (performance, physical activity and perceived exertion) in older adults over a four-week exergaming intervention. Methods28 independently living older adults (mean age 74.47 years; 14 females) played two different exergames (Puzzle and Fox) at two difficulty levels 3× per week for 4 weeks. Physical activity measures from an accelerometer at the lower back, performance as game scores from the exergaming system, and self-reported measures of physical and cognitive exertion were collected at sessions 1,2,3,6,9 and 12. ResultsFor the Puzzle game, performance and physical activity increased significantly across the 12 training sessions. For the Fox game, an increased game speed was associated with increased performance, physical activity, and exertion across the exergaming sessions. Across all exergaming sessions, increasing difficulty by adding cognitive elements decreased the performance and amount of physical activity. ConclusionGame characteristics significantly influence how the exergames are played during a 4-week exergaming intervention. Hence, individual tailoring of the difficulty level and game speed is important. This study highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between game characteristics and gameplay during an exergaming intervention, thereby adding critical information for interpreting intervention effects – or the lack thereof.

Games in Mathematics Education: Trends and Methodological Approaches in the Context of the Congress of European Research in Mathematics Education (CERME) Review

This study aimed to examine the studies on digital games presented in The Congress of European Research in Mathematics Education (CERME) using a systematic analysis approach in terms of research method, data collection tool, and how they define digital games. Sixteen studies related to games were selected from the proceedings. The findings of the research revealed that the number of studies on games has increased in recent years, and the interest of the mathematics education community in this subject has gradually increased. It was seen that qualitative research approaches were used in most of these studies. As a data collection tool, a semi-structured or clinical interview form was mainly used. To reach more comprehensive results, it is necessary to give importance to quantitative research approaches and even to prefer the use of both approaches together. It was indicated that the tendency towards mathematical reasoning and puzzle games has continued predominantly in recent years. Although it was seen that the number of studies on digital games has increased in the last five years, only six studies in total were presented at the CERME. Moreover, three digital games developed by using the tools in the context of dynamic geometry environments were found. Another significant finding was that most of these studies did not define games. Only a few studies that defined the game considered the game as a tool used to acquire a mathematical concept or knowledge. Based on the findings, it can be argued that digital games are not among the interests of the mathematics education community. Finally, it was observed that mathematical theorems and approaches were central to the studies reviewed. Games were generally defined as tools within these studies. Therefore, future research should particularly consider fundamental game features such as game mechanics to create more integrated research environments with mathematics education.

Desain Game 2D Mini Zoo Edukasi Interaktif untuk Anak-Anak Usia 7 Tahun Keatas

This research focuses on the development of 2D Mini Zoo games specifically designed for children aged 7 years and above. By combining jigsaw puzzle game elements and square puzzles, the game aims to create a fun and rewarding learning experience. The approach used in this study is a qualitative approach. The data collected from these observations and interviews is expected to be authentically integrated in game development. Data analysis was carried out qualitatively consisting of data reduction, data presentation and conclusion drawing. The results of the study show that through this game, children can learn to recognize shapes and animals in an interactive and colorful way. The friendly and attractive visual design was deliberately chosen to make children feel comfortable and interested in continuing to play while learning. In addition, this game also helps children in developing important skills such as eye-hand coordination, memory, and problem-solving skills. We hope that Mini Zoo can be a fun learning companion for children, helping them grow and develop in a supportive and educational environment

The Impact of Teaching Materials for Pupils with Mental Disorders in Public Primary Schools at Mvomero District Council, Tanzania

The study aimed to examine the impact of teaching materials for pupils with mental disorders in public primary schools. The study employed a mixed approach and a case study design, and the social cognitive theory was used as a guiding tool. A sample size of 20 respondents was drawn from 30 populations through purposive and simple sampling technique. The data collection methods were through interviews, observation and questionnaire. Descriptive statistical analysis and content analysis were used to analyze the collected data. The study revealed that, there is shortage of teaching materials like game puzzles, visual aids, audio visual, video visual and building blocks as indicated in selected four public primary school at Mvomero District Council, where each learner has different level of mental disorders. The study concludes that the government should provide a sufficient fund to these public primary schools so that pupils with mental disorders get better education services and conducive environment which will facilitate all teachers and pupils to improve teaching and learning process

PARENTS’ COMMUNICATION PATTERNS TOWARDS CHILDREN WITH MENTAL DISORDERS

Communication is a necessity or means of social interaction for human life. However, some individuals, such as mentally retarded children, experience difficulties in communicating due to various factors and environments. This study aims to understand the communication patterns used by parents in interacting with children who suffer from mental retardation. The method used is Systematic Literature Review to explore insights into parents' communication patterns towards mentally retarded children. The researcher collected, summarized, evaluated, interpreted and synthesized information from journals published between 2019-2024. The results showed that communication patterns used by parents can affect learning outcomes and behavioral changes in children with mental retardation. The ideal communication pattern is interpersonal communication that involves direct interaction and feedback between parents and children. Parents need to have extra patience in communicating with mentally retarded children, and communication must be done regularly so that communication development for children can run well. Based on the author's understanding, interpretation and evaluation of various existing journals, it turns out that the communication pattern most favored by mentally retarded children is through audio and video-based multimedia interactive media and gross and fine motor skills through the puzzle game method.

Video Game Skills across Diverse Genres and Cognitive Functioning in Early Adulthood: Verbal and Visuospatial Short-Term and Working Memory, Hand-Eye Coordination, and Empathy.

The cognitive and affective impacts of video games are subjects of ongoing debate, with recent research recognizing their potential benefits. This study employs the Gaming Skill Questionnaire (GSQ) to evaluate participants' gaming skills across six genres and overall proficiency. A total of 88 individuals aged 20-40 participated, completing assessments of empathy and six cognitive abilities: verbal short-term memory, verbal working memory, visuospatial short-term memory, visuospatial working memory, psychomotor speed (hand-eye coordination), and attention. Participants' cognitive abilities were examined using the Digit Span Test, Corsi Block Test, and Deary-Liewald Reaction Time Task, while empathy was assessed using the Empathy Quotient Questionnaire. Findings indicate that higher levels of videogaming proficiency are linked to improvements in visuospatial short-term and working memory, psychomotor speed, and attention. Specific genres enhanced particular skills: RPGs were positively associated with both verbal working memory and visuospatial short-term memory, but were negatively associated with empathy; action games improved psychomotor speed and attention; and puzzle games showed a positive relationship with visuospatial working memory. These results add to ongoing research on the cognitive and affective effects of video games, suggesting their potential to enhance specific cognitive functions. They also highlight the complex relationship between video games and empathy. Future research should explore the long-term impacts and genre-specific effects.

The Bajau-Tainment: An AI-Powered Puzzle Game for Learning the Bajau Language Using Finite State Machine and Shuffle Techniques

The research titled "Bajau-tainment" Educational Game (Edu-game) is a research project that focuses on the development of a Puzzle Game designed to improve memory, specifically in language learning. In this game, players must arrange randomized letters to form a word in the Bajau language. This research applies the shuffle random algorithm, which aims to ensure that the arrangement of letters is always shuffled, making the gameplay dynamic, non-monotonous, and engaging. AI Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology will also be applied in this research. Using the Finite State Machine (FSM) model method, the game will feature a game agent character that will accompany children during gameplay, like how a friend accompanies students in a classroom. This virtual friend can display emotions such as happiness or sadness based on the game environment. The research aims to make this edu-game more appealing and interactive for children. The AI game agent will act as a friend who accompanies the child throughout the game.

PENERAPAN PEMBELAJARAN PROBLEM BASED LEARNING MELALUI GAME PUZZLE DALAM MENINGKATKAN NILAI KERJASAMA PADA MATA PELAJARAN PENDIDIKAN PANCASILA

The background of this study is the low attitude of students working class X-TKRO 2 SMKN 3 Surabaya. This study aims to increase the value of positive cooperation for learners with problem based learning (PBL) through puzzle games on Pancasila education subjects. The type of research used is class action research with two cycles. The subjects of this study were students of Class X-TKRO 2. Data analysis techniques performed using descriptive analysis techniques. Hasi this study addresses the value of cooperation of students in Cycle 1 is 67,62% and Cycle 2 have increased 83,38%. The results of this study show that the application of problem based learning (PBL) through puzzle games can increase the value of cooperation of students in Pancasila education subjects.

The Influence of Image Media And Puzzle Games on Conceptual Understanding (Research on Social Studies Lesson (IPS) at Elementary School)

Conceptual understanding is a person's ability to understand what is taught, capture the meaning of what is learned, and utilize the contents of the material being studied, as well as solve problems related to the material being studied. This study aims to determine the effect of using picture and puzzle media on conceptual understanding in social studies lessons in elementary schools. This research method is Quasi Experimental Design, this research instrument uses a test to measure conceptual understanding. The sample in this study was 20 students of class VA as the control class and 20 students of class VC as the experimental class. Data analysis techniques used the Normality Test, Homogeneity Test and t-Test. The results of the study showed that the application of picture media and puzzle games on students' conceptual understanding in social studies learning was better and showed a significant effect than those who did not use learning media. This is evidenced by the results of the hypothesis test, namely to 2.03> 1.90 for conceptual understanding. There is a difference between the control class and experimental class, the test results of the experimental class are greater than the control class. So it can be said that picture media and puzzle games can be used as an alternative in the learning process in the classroom.

THE USE OF CROSSWORD PUZZLE GAME MEDIA TO INCREASE STUDENT LEARNING MOTIVATION IN THE SUBJECT OF IPAS GRADE V UPTD SD NEGERI 33 PAREPARE

This research is motivated by the low learning motivation of students in grade V at UPTD SD Negeri 33 Parepare. The objective of this research is to enhance the learning process and motivation of students using crossword puzzle game media. The approach used in this research is qualitative. The type of research used is Classroom Action Research (CAR). The subjects in this research amounted to 24 students consisting of 10 male students, 14 female students, and a teacher. This research was conducted in 3 cycles. Each cycle was held 1 meeting with four stages, namely planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. Data collection was carried out using observation, documentation, and questionnaire techniques. The data were analyzed using data condensation techniques, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. This research focuses on the learning process and student learning motivation. The results of the research in cycles I and II showed that the learning process was in the category of sufficient (C) and student learning motivation was in the category of sufficient learning motivation. Meanwhile, in cycle III, the learning process was in the good (B) category, and student learning motivation was in the high learning motivation category. Thus, it can be concluded that the application of crossword puzzle game media increases the learning process and motivation of students in the IPAS subject in grade V at UPTD SD Negeri 33 Parepare.

Applying the Means of Crossword Game to Increase Vocabulary Memorization in Teaching Arabic Language Among Middle School Students "Jannaturroichan " Peterongan Jombang

Arabic is a language that is difficult to learn because of the minimal methods teachers use when teaching, or the difficulty of students focusing when learning Arabic. For this reason, effective teaching media is needed in Arabic language lessons. This research aims to determine the application of crossword puzzle game media to improve vocabulary memorization in teaching Arabic to students at "Jannaturroichan" Middle School in Peterongan Jombang. Therefore, this research applies the crossword puzzle game media. The research method used is descriptive qualitative research with a case study approach. The qualitative approach focuses on the design, use, management, and evaluation stages, as well as data collection through interviews, observations, and documentation, research reveals that crossword puzzle media in Arabic language teaching has supporting and inhibiting factors. The supporting factors are the quality of teachers who are educative, innovative, and have teaching certificates. And the inhibiting factors are students who lack motivation so they are not enthusiastic about learning Arabic. This study also found that the media of crossword games in teaching Arabic can increase students' enthusiasm for learning because the learning process is exciting and not boring. In this study, the researcher wants to share experiences in the application of crossword game media in teaching Arabic to increase students' vocabulary.Keywords: Cross gaming, Descriptive qualitative, Improved Arabic language

Smartphone usage during walking decreases the positive persistency in gait cycle variability

Gait cycle variability during steady walking, described by the stride interval time series, has been used as a gait-stability-related measure. In particular, the positive persistency in the stride intervals with 1/f-like fluctuation and reduction of the persistency are the well-documented metrics that can characterize gait patterns of healthy young adults and elderly including patients with neurological diseases, respectively. Here, we examined effects of a dual task on gait cycle variability in healthy young adults, based on the mean and standard deviation statistics as well as the positive persistency of the stride intervals during steady walking on a treadmill. Specifically, three gait conditions were examined: control condition, non-cognitive task with holding a smartphone in front of the chest using their dominant hand and looking fixedly at a blank screen of the smartphone, and cognitive motor task with holding a smartphone as in the non-cognitive task and playing a puzzle game displayed on the smartphone by one-thumb operation. We showed that only the positive persistency, not the mean and standard deviation statistics, was affected by the cognitive and motor load of smartphone usage in the cognitive condition. More specifically, the positive persistency exhibited in the control and the non-cognitive conditions was significantly reduced in the cognitive condition. Our results suggest that the decrease in the positive persistency during the cognitive task, which might represent the deterioration of healthy gait pattern, is caused endogenously by the cognitive and motor load, not necessarily by the reduction of visual field as often hypothesized.

Analysis of the Concept of Solving the Sudoku Game Using Backtracking and Brute Force Algorithms

Sudoku is a puzzle game that arranges numbers from one to nine on a board consisting of 9x9 squares. This game has a rule: the numbers arranged on a board cannot be the same in each row or column. The main goal of this Sudoku game is to complete the board and win by entering numbers into each empty box. Therefore, in this Sudoku game, there is only one valid solution. At the start of the game, several numbers are provided, which serve as clues for players to fill in the next box. The number of clues at the start of the game determines whether the Sudoku game level is difficult. The fewer the clues given, the more difficult it is to solve Sudoku. Solving Sudoku problems cannot be done manually, so several algorithms are needed, which require a lot of repetition and search functions. In this research, we will compare concepts in solving Sudoku using the Backtracking algorithm and the backtracking algorithm using the brute force technique. This comparison is seen from the effectiveness of solving Sudoku. The results of this research conclude that to solve Sudoku logic quickly and efficiently, the backtracking algorithm can be used compared to the Brute Force algorithm. This is because the backtracking algorithm has better complexity, and the solution steps are fast and “smart”. In contrast, the brute algorithm takes longer to complete because the brute force algorithm has to search for all the possibilities. The average time required to complete 10 9 x 9 puzzle tests with backtracking is 10910.96 ms, while the brute force algorithm takes longer, around 15871.90 ms.

Edukasi Penerapan Terapi Bermain Puzzle Sederhana Untuk Perkembangan Motorik Halus Pada Anak Usia 3-6 Tahun Di UPT Puskesmas Kedaton Bandar Lampung

Fine motor skills are movements carried out by the fingers with a central nervous cell arrangement that regulates the use of small muscle groups such as the fingers and hands, and often require precision and coordination with the hands. One type of game that can optimize children's fine motor development is puzzle games. Puzzles are a type of game that improves thinking skills, makes it easier to remember and understand concepts, and increases creativity. Puzzle games are simple games that are played in pairs and require precision because children are trained to focus their minds so they can concentrate. The aim of this activity is to improve fine motor development in children through puzzle play therapy. It was found that respondents were very enthusiastic about carrying out play therapy. The conclusion from this activity is that fine motor development in children can be trained using puzzle play therapy.

Using Snakes and Ladders Game and Crossword Puzzle as STAD Model Based on Students’ Creativity

This research analyzes and finds out several things; 1) the influence of STAD learning using the snakes and ladders game on students' social studies learning outcomes based on high and low learning activeness; 2) To determine the effect of STAD learning using TTS media on students' social studies learning outcomes based on high and low learning activeness. This research method uses quasi-experimental research (quasi-experiment). This research was divided into two classes, namely experimental class I and experimental class II, which were given learning treatment using the STAD learning model. The results of the research are that; 1) The STAD learning model using the snakes and ladders game on learning outcomes based on high learning activity of students in class V of State Elementary School, Kisaran Barat District, the average pre-test score is 65.8 and the average post-test score is 83.6 with a point difference of 18 or 26 .1%. The pre-test average was 61.8, while for Randa students' active learning the post-test average score was 71.27 with a difference of 9 points or 13.9%. 2) The STAD learning model with a crossword puzzle game on learning outcomes based on students' high learning activity, with an average pre-test score of 59.27 and after being treated the average score was 69.82, a difference of 11 points or 15.5%. Meanwhile, based on students' low learning activity, the average pre-test score was 57.33 and after being treated the average score was 67.6, the difference was 10 or 15% points. The conclusion is that there is an influence of the STAD learning model with crossword puzzles and snakes and ladders on learning outcomes based on students' high and low learning activeness and the same goes for using snakes and ladders.

Using the gaming chatbot to develop algorithmic and logical thinking skills

The use of special computer games in classes increases student engagement and maintains their interest in learning, including learning computer science. Due to the logical and rational nature of solving programming problems, logic games and puzzle games that develop cognitive abilities, logical and algorithmic thinking are well suited for teaching computer science. Considering the popularity of Wordle puzzle game and the fact that word games are very effective for developing cognitive abilities, a gaming chatbot with puzzle tasks organized according to Wordle principles was developed for learning computer science and programming. The aim of the article is to investigate the effect of the developed gaming chatbot on students’ algorithmic and logical thinking.The study involved 3rd year undergraduate students of the educational program “Information Systems and Technologies”, Faculty of Information Technologies, Moscow Polytechnic University. The students used the gaming chatbot outside of class for 10 days and completed surveys before and after use. The analysis of the students’ surveys showed the impact of this gaming chatbot on the activation of memory, attention and to a greater extent logical thinking of the students, as well as on assessing students’ perception of the complexity of programming, their own knowledge of programming languages and logical thinking skills.The results of the study expand current ideas regarding the use of gaming chatbots and Wordle-type puzzle tasks in teaching computer science and programming. The presented gaming chatbot will help to increase students’ interest in classes, students’ involvement in the learning process, and ensure the development of their cognitive abilities.The conclusions of the article may be of practical interest to informatics and programming teachers. They contribute to the development of the direction of building gaming chatbots, as well as the use of word puzzles for teaching computer science.

Chess Game Rook‐Icon Movement‐Based Photovoltaic Array Reconfiguration for Higher Shade Dispersion and Improved Global Power Peaks Under Partial Shading Conditions: An Experimental Study

Solar photovoltaic (PV) system generates low power because of nonuniform sun irradiation compared to standard test conditions. Partial shading conditions (PSCs) can arise from various factors, with passing clouds, trees, telecommunication towers, bird droppings, and similar elements being among the most prevalent causes. Under the shading scenario, multiple global and local maxima power points exist on the P–V curves. Herein, the chess game rules for the “Rook” icon are followed to attain the optimal placement of integer numbers (1–9) in the 9 × 9 size game puzzle matrix. The integer number‐based game puzzles such as Su‐Do‐Ku, symmetric matrix, and proposed Rook's movement‐game theory (RMGT) to rearrange the PV modules in arrays are investigated and compared with the standard arrangements such as series‐parallel, total‐cross‐tied during PSCs. The suggested RMGT puzzle‐based arrangement is able to achieve higher power at global maximum power point, performance enhancement, fill factor, and low power loss. As a result, the experimental study proves the superiority of RMGT configuration compared to conventional methodologies under the shading scenarios. The proposed RMGT‐based PV array is tested and obtained the performance higher side as, , , , and compared to existing reconfiguration methodologies.