TITLE:
Game Design Combined with Science Workshop for Increasing Motivation in Studying Science in Children
AUTHORS:
Sara Hojjat, Chiaki Fukuzaki, Tomoyuki Sowa
KEYWORDS:
Game Design, Maze and Mirror Game, Interactive Design, Science Workshop, Playful Learning
JOURNAL NAME:
Art and Design Review,
Vol.4 No.2,
May
31,
2016
ABSTRACT: Many studies have been conducted to discover ways to increase the motivation of students in
science classes. The research project discussed here, examines attempt to increase the motivation
of elementary school students in basic science by the means of designing a science game. To realize
this goal, the maze and mirror game was designed and a workshop was held based on the game
in the Shimada elementary school which teaches the concepts of light and reflection during joyful
group play. The game was initially designed for this research consisted of a maze pattern, mirrors
and bases, a buzzer and a laser. The results were evaluated by three types of questionnaires and
showed improvement in all aspects. The questionnaires revealed that they could develop their
knowledge of light and reflection, 91% of students liked the game very much and 81% favored
having these kinds of games in their science classes. The main achievement of this game in motivating
students in studying science can be categorized into four main areas: Creating thinking and
independent learning, playful learning atmosphere, a chance to learn in group activities, and a
feeling of accomplishment.