Game based learning using Godot

Published

April 11, 2024

Learn to create game based learning activities with Godot an open-source game engine

Note

This article is a summary of a workshop presented by Thomas Frosig on april 11 2024.

Theory: GBL vs gamification

GBL is different from gamification. Gamification is related to rewards(dopamine). It relates to Behavorism example: cahoot. GBL is related to self-determination theory and Constructivism

To build an GBL experience, you can add the elements of self-determination theory to boost intrinsic motivation.

  1. Autonomy: choice, free movement,
  2. Competent: player must feel competent(reward): intrinsic motivation drive
  3. Sense of belonging. Example: at the entrance hi cool to be here, create a connection
Tip

The player must search the knowledge instead of just test always his knowledge.

Practical

Thomas tip

Best approach: Learnify a known game play instead of gamify learning.

This is why we are going to work on a 2D platform game like Mario that we are going to modify to implement the learning experience.

1st tutorial Platformer: Gameplay

Elements of the game:

  • Characters
  • Platform
  • Collectables

Links:

Hands on

Follow the tutorial to get a 2D game up and running.

2nd tutorial: Level design and learning approach

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zL__a0Ei6Vs&t=0s

Hands on

Follow the tutorial to enhance levels design on your game and adding collectables.

Add multiple levels and replace the point gain approach by a question based approach.

When the player collides a collectable, a question is prompted, and then he gets the point only if he answers correctly.