The impact of goal assignment in a game-based learning environment

The impact of goal assignment in a game-based learning environment

The impact of goal assignment in a game-based learning environment

John L. Nietfeld, Kristin F. Hoffmann

Abstract

"Background: Goal setting has been established in the literature as a critical component of self-regulated learning and for effective problem-solving. Yet, surprisingly little attention has been focused on goal-directed behaviour in digital game-based learning environments (GBLEs) despite their expanding use in educational contexts. Objectives: The current study examined the impact of goal assignment in a GBLE aligned with curricular objectives and played in a classroom context. Methods: Eighth-grade students (N = 59) in the experiment were randomly assigned to either a mastery goal condition or a performance goal condition before playing CRYSTAL ISLAND—OUTBREAK. Goal orientation was measured before gameplay, monitoring judgements assessed during gameplay, and enjoyment was measured after game play. Results and Conclusions: Two important results emerged that contribute to the existing literature on goals and GBLEs. First, assignment to the mastery goal condi-tion resulted in significantly higher enjoyment ratings and monitoring judgements but not game performance while considering the influence of pre-existing goal- orientation. Second, self-reported mastery goal orientation and videogame play fre-quency predicted enjoyment in the game. Implications: The results suggest that enjoyment can be facilitated by orienting stu- dents to adopt mastery goals and that developers should consider integrating mastery-based instructions in their GBLEs. Moreover, instructional goals can influ-ence students regardless of incoming goal orientations."

Reference

Nietfeld, J. L., & Hoffmann, K. F. (2024). The impact of goal assignment in a game-based learning environment. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcal.12919

Keywords

Achievement Goals, Game-based Learning, Goal Orientation