Evaluation of the Create@School Game-Based Learning-Teaching Approach.

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Learning Sciences

Background:

• Constructivist learning theory emphasizes active knowledge construction through experience.
• Digital game making offers a hands-on, creative approach to learning.
• Existing tools may not adequately support integrating game design into academic curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the validation and evaluation of the Create@School App and Project Management Dashboard (PMD).
• To assess the usability and user experience of these digital game-making tools for academic purposes.
• To explore the integration of game mechanics into the academic curriculum.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Hassenzahl model and AttrakDiff survey to measure user experience, satisfaction, and emotional responses.
• Employed a constructivist, game-making approach with students programming and designing academic games.
• Conducted a two-year usage study of code-making applications (Create@School, Pocket Code).

Main Results:

• Students spontaneously processed academic knowledge through game-based learning.
• The developed tools facilitated the integration of game mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics into the curriculum.
• Pupils demonstrated creativity, practical skills, and enthusiasm when creating academic games.
• The approach was widely accepted by both students and teachers in daily class routines.

Conclusions:

• Digital game making is an effective constructivist method for embedding academic knowledge.
• The Create@School App and PMD are acceptable and usable tools for educational game development.
• This approach successfully enhances student engagement, creativity, and learning outcomes in academic subjects.