A coordinate geometry learning environment with game-like properties

Abstract

Although educational games can be engaging and motivating for students, the game aspects tend to take up time that could have been used for instruction, and they add to the cognitive load of the students. Therefore, instead of completely integrating educational content into a game framework, we instead choose to start with a computer tutor and selectively incorporate those features of games that are engaging but do not overly detract from learning. Following this approach, we created a learning environment for coordinate geometry with game-like properties. We define game-like properties as the elements of games such as visual representation, cover story, and animated feedback, which are responsible for their engaging nature. While there have been many attempts to use game-like environment in tutors (e.g. Wayang Outpost), our approach differs by using an iterative process in a space of ITS and games, within the framework of stimulation and overload. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.