A Case Study on 21st Century Skills Development Through a Computer Based Maths Game

The new technology developments that are emerging on the market demand re-skilling and updating competencies thus enabling people to adapt to new expectations in the 21st century workplace and life. Therefore, the education system should also prepare learners for lifelong learning through development of 21st century skills. Recent research on mathematics education also shows that for many students, math is not considered an easy subject and students are facing difficulties in developing logical thinking and problem solving skills. This paper introduces “Count With Me!”, a novel educational computer based video game that teaches maths concepts. An investigation on how the game supports the development of learners’ 21st century skills such as problem solving, self-directed learning, knowledge building and digital literacy is presented. The results of a case study in a 3rd level educational institution show that the large majority of students that took part in the case study acquired 21st century skills. 96.97% of students believed that the Count With Me! game helped them to develop their problem solving skills. 82.82% of students liked self-pacing themselves through the game based educational material. 78.78% of students agreed that the maths game has improved their knowledge and 81.81% of students were satisfied with their achievements in the game.