Authors:
Danu Pranantha
1
;
Wei Chen
2
;
Francesco Bellotti
3
;
Erik Van Der Spek
1
;
Alessandro DeGloria
3
and
Matthias Rauterberg
2
Affiliations:
1
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands
;
2
Eindhoven University of Technology, Netherlands
;
3
Universita di Genova, Italy
Keyword(s):
Physics Games, Game Design, Simulation, Pseudo-tutor, Easy Authoring.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Artificial Intelligence and Decision Support Systems
;
Authoring Tools and Content Development
;
Computer-Supported Education
;
e-Learning
;
Enterprise Information Systems
;
Game-Based and Simulation-Based Learning
;
Information Technologies Supporting Learning
;
Intelligent Tutoring Systems
;
Learning/Teaching Methodologies and Assessment
;
Web-Based Learning, Wikis and Blogs
Abstract:
Instruction in physics aims at achieving two goals: the acquisition of body of knowledge and problem solving
skills in physics. This requires students to connect physical phenomena, physics principles, and physics symbols.
Computer simulation provides students with graphical model that unites phenomenon and principles in
physics. However, such minimally guided approach may harm learning since it overburdens the working memory.
Also, simulation is inadequate in promoting problem solving skills since students need to exercise with
a variety of physics problems. Intelligent tutoring systems (ITS), in contrast, train students in solving physics
problems. In this paper, we designed an online puzzle game in physics that combines simulation and pseudo tutor
(namely QTut). We addressed three challenges: extensibility, scalability, and reusability in designing our
game. We conducted usability tests with 10 participants on the game prototype to study the user performances
and percepti
ons for improvement. The results indicate the game as educative and moderately entertaining. The
use of scaffolding in the game positively contributed to the game learning experience. Moreover, the game
GUI expressed information well that made the game understandable, even with little instructions.
(More)