Design and evaluation of an extrinsic integration framework in game-based learning

Abstract

One of the biggest issues for game-based learning is the design of the system. Designing a tightly integrated system with seamless game-play has proven to be not only a difficult but time consuming process. In this dissertation, a relatively new design strategy known as extrinsic integration is introduced as a solution to the limitations of existing designs. Furthermore, a deeper evaluation of how game-based learning system functions to motivate the user is explored through proposing and validating a theoretical model that outlines the causal relationship between factors that influence learning in game-based learning systems. The first study extends prior work on extrinsic integration design by examining the effectiveness of alternative reward structures in integrating learning and game. Specifically, a performance-contingent reward is proposed as a new integration mechanism. The results from the experiment show that the proposed reward structure produces a statistically significant increase in the level of learning, motivation, and engagement. The second study presents a theoretical model that captures the duality of motivation through the theory of trying. Specifically, PLS analysis is used to analyze the significance of relationships between factors that include personality traits, design and motivational factors which ultimately lead to a learning gain. The results show various significant relationships including the causal effect between two motivational types of trying in game and trying to learn, where trying in game positively influences trying to learn. The findings from this dissertation provides exciting grounds for designing a highly extensive and highly effective game-based learning system. Also, the theoretical grounds in which extrinsic integration functions suggest exciting research opportunities with evidences towards building a more concrete understanding of how game-based learning works.