Gamifying Schools: Utilising Game Concepts to Enhance Learning

Abstract

Engaging elementary school students in various school subjects has always been a difficult task for teachers. In recent years, research on using computer games for educational purposes has shown that situated learning can effectively engage middle school students in critical thinking about authentic scenarios. In this thesis we investigate the area of utilising games for educational purposes, and propose a web platform with game elements for school use. Furthermore, we develop an application prototype containing the key features of the proposed application, to act as a proof of concept. We believe the proposed application may contribute to more engaging and enjoyable learning for elementary school students, and as a result, increase the potential for true learning. It could provide several benefits for teachers as well, allowing them to translate their knowledge into tangible game artefacts to customise their curricula tailored to their strengths. In addition, it could also provide teachers with tools to assess the class in a more accurate way, and thus spend their time more wisely, leading to a more efficient use of the teacher as a mentor and guide, and potentially increasing student-teacher interaction.