Electromagnetism supercharged!: learning physics with digital simulation games

TLDR

Computer and video games are increasingly used as learning tools, with simulations motivating students and offering intuitive ways to grasp abstract physics concepts. This study investigates the learning outcomes of an electromagnetism simulation game in a school serving underserved students. Students using the game outperformed a guided discovery control group on physics understanding, with game mechanics helping address conceptual gaps but also presenting challenges to engagement, motivation, and concept acquisition.

Abstract

Learning scientists are increasingly turning to computer and video games as tools for learning. Simulation might not only motivate learners, but provide accessible ways for students to develop intuitive understandings of abstract physics phenomena. This study examines what learning occurs when an electromagnetism simulation game is used in a school for underserved students. Students in the experimental group performed better than students in the control group (guided discovery-based science) on measures for understanding. Game mechanics enabled students to confront weaknesses in understandings, and physics representations became tools for understanding problems. Implications for the design of educational digital media are discussed. Yet, it was also these very same game mechanics posed significant challenges in terms of student engagement, motivation, and learning of physics concepts.