Review Article
Aigul I. Akhmetova, Salima S. Seitenova, Begzod K. Khodjaev, Odinakhon R. Jamoldinova, Saule Z. Yerkebaeva, Kenzhegul U. Kazybayeva
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 17, Issue 3, Article No: ep585
ABSTRACT
This study presents the first comprehensive dual-database bibliometric analysis of game-based learning research, investigating its evolution between 2015 and 2024 through analysis of 34,125 documents from Scopus (18,487) and Web of Science (WoS) (15,638) using advanced visualization techniques. The findings reveal consistent field expansion with notable database variations: Scopus demonstrates steady growth while WoS experienced a significant 2020 decline. Citation analysis shows a higher impact on 2015-2018 studies, with Hwang, G. J. as the most influential author and “Computers and Education” as the top journal. Co-keyword analysis reveals distinct conceptual structures—Scopus exhibits two clusters (human-centered studies and game-based learning/serious games) versus three in WoS (education-motivation, health-rehabilitation, technology-design). Thematic analysis demonstrates that game-based learning, serious games, and virtual reality occupy different maturity positions across databases, indicating varied theoretical consolidation. Collaboration networks show US, China, and European dominance, with weaker ties involving developing countries. These findings provide critical insights for educational policymakers and curriculum designers, identifying research clusters to guide targeted funding, collaboration gaps requiring international partnerships, and evidence-based guidance on established versus emerging game-based learning approaches. The dual-database methodology offers comprehensive research landscape mapping that supports strategic decisions in educational technology implementation and research prioritization.
Keywords: game-based learning, bibliometric analysis, scientific mapping, data visualization, research trends
Research Article
Dichitchai Mettarikanon, Weeratian Tawanwongsri, Adisak Wanchai, Naparat Chookerd
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 15, Issue 2, Article No: ep419
ABSTRACT
Cutaneous malignancy is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidities and mortalities. Patient self-screening is helpful for early detection. Among educational pedagogies, game-based learning (GBL) has received increasing attention in recent years. We appraised the effectiveness of GBL, using Wordwall, to enhance cognitive performances pertaining to fundamental knowledge of cutaneous malignancies and perspectives on the intervention compared with a digital pamphlet. This multi-center study utilized a quasi-experimental research design and was conducted between February and April 2022. Participants were recruited and randomly assigned into a game group and a pamphlet group with a 1:1 ratio. Fundamental knowledge of cutaneous malignancies was assessed with pre- and post-intervention tests consisting of ten multiple choice questions with four alternative answers. These tests asked about prominent or pathognomonic features of cutaneous malignancies. During the five-day intervention period, recognition scores of participants in the game group were recorded. Perspectives on the interventions were also collected for analysis. A total of 94 participants were included, 60 (63.8%) were female. The mean age was 19.8 years (standard deviation [SD]=0.8). The increase in knowledge scores of the participants in the game group and pamphlet group was 2.57 (SD=1.30) and 2.36 (SD=1.52), respectively. In the game group, the mean best recognition score (13.89, SD=2.83) was significantly higher than the mean first recognition score (9.53, SD=2.48) with a p-value <0.001. The overall satisfaction among the participants in the game group and pamphlet group was 4.41 (SD=0.57) and 4.23 (SD=0.59), respectively. This study suggests potentiality of GBL to enhance knowledge and recognition performances of common cutaneous malignancies with high satisfaction. Embedding this approach in the primary prevention of cutaneous malignancies might be a promising option to prevent cancer-related morbidities and mortalities.
Keywords: game-based learning, cutaneous malignancy, pamphlet, game education, skin cancer
Research Article
Mohammad Taufiq Abdul Ghani, Mahizer Hamzah, Wan Ab Aziz Wan Daud, Taj Rijal Muhamad Romli
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 14, Issue 1, Article No: ep344
ABSTRACT
In the 21st century, the advancement of technology has changed how people, especially the younger generation communicate and socialise with each other, as well as how they learn, acquire and process information. Therefore, this study aims to explore the impact on the employment of digital game-based learning in Arabic class at the tertiary level. This study is a qualitative study and data obtained through semi-structured interview sessions with 16 students at tertiary level, who exposed to the mobile digital game in learning the Arabic language. The students were chosen purposively based on several determining characteristics. The major findings indicated that the mobile digital game produces a significant effect on their learning achievement and enhances their Arabic vocabulary acquisition. Besides, the digital game-based learning also promotes a student-centred and interactive learning, while additionally creates an enjoyable environment for learning that could encourage student participation in class activities, sustain their learning engagement, and improve their motivation. This study explored opportunities for Arabic language lecturers to practice digital game-based learning as it promotes student-centred learning, which would enhance student’s participation in language activities and provide them with a joyful, fun, and active learning environment.
Keywords: Arabic language, mobile digital game, digital game-based learning, teaching and learning, mobile learning
Research Article
Imam Fitri Rahmadi, Zsolt Lavicza, Tony Houghton
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 13, Issue 3, Article No: ep299
ABSTRACT
Educational games have great potential for learning, however the potential of user-generated microgames for supporting learning is still not completely understood. The present study reviews the design quality of user-generated microgames based on microgame design fundamentals and explores the potential of the games for facilitating learning from the perspective of elementary teachers in terms of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This is exploratory research organised within the GeoGebra application and with the participation of elementary teachers in Indonesia. The study found that the games met the microgame design fundamentals but the mechanics and aesthetics were in need of some improvements. The major strength of the games is simplicity for learning, however their user interfaces are their major weakness. Learning resources and environments in Indonesian elementary schools are relatively supportive of games integration into learning processes whilst senior teachers and rural areas are less so. These findings suggest users should pay more attention to audios, visuals and special effects as well as winning conditions when creating microgames in open platforms. It is of pivotal importance to provide playing instructions and games that fit to mobile screens. Furthermore, teachers have to carefully select the games and consider the context before utilising user-generated microgames for assisting learning.
Keywords: user-generated microgames, microgame-based learning, microgame design fundamentals, exploratory study
Research Article
Katja Fleischman, Ellen Ariel
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 7, Issue 2, pp. 138-159
ABSTRACT
Understanding and trouble-shooting microscopic processes involved in laboratory tests are often challenging for students in science education because of the inability to visualize the different steps and the various errors that may influence test outcome. The effectiveness of gamification or the use of game design elements and game-mechanics were explored in a year-long research project which saw the development of a web based learning tool that visualized Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs) in a digital laboratory. A cohort of 30 students from the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science trialed the first prototype and provided feedback in a survey on their learning experience and the extent to which the learning tool enhanced their learning. This article provides additional insights into likely future trends of substituting traditional learning modes such as lecture and practical laboratory classes with gamified content.
Keywords: Gamification, Game-based learning, Higher education, Science education