Development and assessment of a chemistry-based computer video game as a learning tool
DISSERTATION
Kermin Joel Martinez-Hernandez, Purdue University, United States
Purdue University . Awarded
Abstract
The chemistry-based computer video game is a multidisciplinary collaboration between chemistry and computer graphics and technology fields developed to explore the use of video games as a possible learning tool. This innovative approach aims to integrate elements of commercial video game and authentic chemistry context environments into a learning experience through gameplay. The project consists of three areas: development, assessment, and implementation. However, the foci of this study were the development and assessment of the computer video game including possible learning outcomes and game design elements.
A chemistry-based game using a mixed genre of a single player first-person game embedded with action-adventure and puzzle components was developed to determine if students’ level of understanding of chemistry concepts change after gameplay intervention. Three phases have been completed to assess students’ understanding of chemistry concepts prior and after gameplay intervention. Two main assessment instruments (pre/post open-ended content survey and individual semi-structured interviews) were used to assess student understanding of concepts. In addition, game design elements were evaluated for future development phases.
Preliminary analyses of the interview data suggest that students were able to understand most of the chemistry challenges presented in the game and the game served as a review for previously learned concepts as well as a way to apply such previous knowledge. To guarantee a better understanding of the chemistry concepts, additions such as debriefing and feedback about the content presented in the game seem to be needed. The use of visuals in the game to represent chemical processes, game genre, and game idea appear to be the game design elements that students like the most about the current computer video game.
Citation
Martinez-Hernandez, K.J. Development and assessment of a chemistry-based computer video game as a learning tool. Ph.D. thesis, Purdue University. Retrieved October 3, 2023 from https://www.learntechlib.org/p/120804/.
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