Opening The Door: An evaluation of the efficacy of a problem-based learning game

  • Authors:
  • Scott J. Warren;Mary Jo Dondlinger;Julie McLeod;Chris Bigenho

  • Affiliations:
  • Department of Learning Technologies, College of Information, University of North Texas, 3940 N. Elm, Rm. G150/G187, Denton, TX 76207, USA;Department of Learning Technologies, College of Information, University of North Texas, 3940 N. Elm, Rm. G150/G187, Denton, TX 76207, USA and Richland College, 2800 Abrams Rd., Dallas, TX 75243, U ...;Department of Learning Technologies, College of Information, 3940 N. Elm, Rm. G150 Denton, TX 76207, USA;Department of Learning Technologies, College of Information, University of North Texas, 3940 N. Elm, Rm. G150/G187, Denton, TX 76207, USA

  • Venue:
  • Computers & Education
  • Year:
  • 2012

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Abstract

As higher education institutions seek to improve undergraduate education, initiatives are underway to target instructional methods, re-examine curricula, and apply innovative technologies to better engage students with content. This article discusses the findings of an exploratory study focused on a course redesign that game elements, PBL methods, and 3-D communication tools in an introductory computing course. Some of these findings included an appreciation for how the technology skills gained in the course applied to the world of work, an understanding of the significant role that interpersonal communications play in learning and in career success, a sense of empowerment fostered by access to resources, and an increased willingness to play, explore, and experiment with tools, content, and design processes.