Game Strategies to Engage and Empower Students: A Study on Perceptions of Cybersecurity Lesson

Abstract

This study examines whether game-based learning can be used as a promising strategy for fostering students’ engagement and motivation. Researchers investigate students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of three educational games designed to teach cybersecurity in primary schools: an escape room–style game, a treasure hunt game, and a quiz competition. Although all games cover the same cybersecurity content, they differ in interactivity and mobility. The research explores students’ experiences in terms of ease of use, educational value, entertainment, and influence on future learning. Results show positive responses across all games, with no significant gender differences. The escape room game was considered the most challenging yet most favored, suggesting students appreciate immersive and stimulating experiences. Findings support the potential of game-based approaches to enhance student engagement in not only cybersecurity education but across other subjects as well.