Browsing by Author "Paananen, Matilda"

With the growing popularity of video games, it has been considered how interest and motivation to study science could be increased through games. However, more research is needed on the benefits of learning games to support teaching, especially in grades 1-6. Observation of species and familiarization with their habitats, as well as inquiry-based learning, are essential in science education, but the research is still lacking on learning games on the subject. Information is also needed about game engagement and attitudes toward games, as they have been found to have a connection to learning. The purpose of this study was to examine students’ engagement, learning, and attitudes toward game content in a learning game about ants, their ecology, and research. The aim was to provide information on the use of a learning game using an inquiry-based approach in the context of science education. This mixed methods research used both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study design was a quasi-experimental intervention study. The data were collected through a questionnaire involving 38 fifth graders. The students responded to a pre- and post-questionnaire on learning, engagement, and attitudes, between which an intervention was conducted by playing the Anter learning game. Qualitative data on ant structure (drawings) as well as ecology and research (open-ended questions) were categorized and quantified, after which qualitative and quantitative data were analysed using statistical tests. In addition, thematic design was used in the analysis of qualitative data to investigate research problems. According to the results, the learning game statistically significantly promoted the learning of ant characteristics, ecology, and research. Based on the responses, the engagement to the Anter game was at a fairly high level, although it did not reach the same level of engagement when compared to the students’ favourite games. Engagement in playing a learning game correlates statistically significantly with attitude dimensions, such as interest in ants and their research. Fear of ants is negatively correlated with interest in ants and their research. Girls and boys achieved similar results in learning, but boys were more interested in ants and their research than girls. The fear of ants was stronger in girls than in boys. The results show that a learning game appropriate to their context can bring a useful addition to the teaching of science education, as the game allows students to learn even challenging details, knowledge, and research skills independently.