Self-Regulation, Alternate Reality Games, and Problem Based Learning: Are Students Ready to Play to Learn?

• In Event: Roundtable Session 120
  In Roundtable Session: Games for Learning: Research Outcomes and Student Experiences

Abstract

Online and blended learning are on the rise but are today’s students self disciplined enough to succeed in these types of courses? This study examines two different course designs—Alternate Reality Game (AltRG) and a non-game based PBL environment—and the digital traces left behind by students as they navigate their way through each course. Student blogs, forum posts, e-mails and interviews are analyzed using open coding and existing self-regulation theoretical frameworks. Findings related to student self-efficacy, prior experiences, course design and instructor effect are reported along with implications for instructional design of AltRG for learning, PBL designs and instructional methods.

Author

• Chris William Bigenho, Greenhill School & University of North Texas, Denton