Evaluating Educational Video Games for Playability, Learning, and Culturally Relevant Instruction

• In Event: Games and Virtual Simulations for Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Eight researchers developed a model for evaluating educational video games based on player experience, design for learning, and culturally relevant instruction. Through a process of test play, deep play, and ongoing evaluation, this model can be used by teachers, researchers, and game designers. Our analysis showed that this model could be particularly beneficial to teachers by helping them approach game evaluation in a systematic way to identify how best to allocate their time and lesson planning to include games. We also found that there are persistent issues with educational video game design, and that immersive game experiences are best-suited for use as instructional tools.

Authors

• Matthew Duvall, University of Pennsylvania
  Presenting Author

• Lei Chai, University of Pennsylvania
  Non-Presenting Author

• Xinwei Deng, University of Pennsylvania
  Non-Presenting Author

• Saida Harpi, University of Pennsylvania
  Non-Presenting Author

• Kyungmin Lee, University of Pennsylvania
  Non-Presenting Author

• yuqi Wang, University of Pennsylvania
  Non-Presenting Author

• Kunyi Xia, University of Pennsylvania
  Non-Presenting Author

• Yiran Zhou, University of Pennsylvania
  Non-Presenting Author