An investigation of design factors of game-based electronic learning environments

Many children find mathematics subjects difficult to learn, boring, and irrelevant to their lives. In order to engage children in learning mathematics, different computer-based learning tools have been developed and tried, such as microworlds and intelligent tutoring systems. These tools have added a lot of richness to the field of computer-based learning environments, however, they seem to have failed to address the needs of all children. One of the reasons for this is that not all children are motivated by the same things or learn in the same fashion [Schmeck, 1988]. Hence, the educational needs of children should be addressed through a variety of tools. Some researchers have suggested that computer games can provide motivating mathematics learning environments for children. The overall objective of my research is to investigate how to design game-based electronic learning environments aimed at helping children learn formal mathematics concepts. The issues involved in this research include devising effective educational interfaces, identifying design features that would make educational games fun and motivating, and examining ways in which such tools might be used.