Modeling and Understanding Students' Problem-Solving Behavior in Game-Based Learning Experience: A Case Study

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 30
  In Roundtable Session: Technology, Instruction, Cognition and Learning SIG: Students' Experiences With Technology

Abstract

Problem solving is highly related to gameplay and learning from games. In this study, we focus on investigating learners’ problem-solving processes in GBL experience through both quantitative and qualitative approach. We observed a player’s Physics Playground gameplay and modeled her gameplay data via Hidden Markov Model. We also interviewed her about her in-game problem solving. Both data sources suggested that the in-game problem solving relied heavily on trial-and-error. Implications for educational data mining are discussed.

Authors

• Zhichun Liu, University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth

• Jiawei Li, Florida State University