Motivational Factors Through Learning Analytics in Digital Game-Based Learning

Abstract

As learning analytics is still an emerging discipline, there is a lack of a standardized method for its data collection and analysis, especially in educational games where players' data can vary greatly. This paper presents an LA model for determining students' motivation within a game-based learning environment by analyzing their in-game data. In the proposed model, three motivational factors are assessed: goal orientation, effort regulation, and self-efficacy. This paper also presents implementations of the game Fraction Hero developed using the RPG Maker MV engine as well as the Learning Analytics system and dashboard. In the experiment, thirty-one Grade 6 students from the University of the Philippines Integrated School were asked to answer a 10-item survey about their self-perceived motivation toward solving fraction problems, and afterwards play the game for data collection. Based on the results, it was revealed that the students' in-game motivation was significantly higher than their self-perceived motivation.