On the design of digital game-based learning environments for education of the general public on focused scientific topics with an application to underwater acoustics

Abstract

Game-based learning environments for educating the general public on focused scientific topics rely upon voluntary engagement of participants usually in presence of competitive attractions, multiple sources of distraction and time constraints. In addition certain educational topics present an inherent complexity that necessitates the implementation of games with sophisticated interfaces and steep learning curves that may discourage players to engage. In this work we analyze the challenges and propose a new model for the design of efficient multistage game-based learning environments based on the general scheme “attract > engage > educate > evaluate”. An existing game-based learning environment for introduction to underwater acoustics is presented as a very close design example of the proposed model.