Understanding Player Activity in a Game-Based Virtual Learning Environment

Abstract

This study examines player activity in a game-based virtual learning environment as a means toward evaluating instructional and game design. By determining the goals embedded in project development and the availability and structure of in-game activities, the first part of this research highlights opportunities for players to engage with learning content in the environment. In the following section, server data provides the requisite information for creating a portrait of player actions in the online space. From this assessment of intentional designs compared to player activity, the study provides findings that focus on player behaviors and structural realities. Players tended to avoid opportunities to interact with learning content. They showed few examples of sustained, immersed participation in the game-based environment. The structure of the activities was such that requisite information was inconsistently available for players to complete interactions and further their knowledge of new learning content. Understanding player activity is an essential piece of the formative evaluation of ongoing project development with implications for the creation of similar game-based virtual learning environments in particular and design research in general. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone [phone]. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]