Pwning Level Bosses in MATLAB: Student Reactions to a Game-Inspired Computational Physics Course
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Ian D. Beatty, Assistant Professor (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Abstract: We investigated student reactions to two computational physics courses incorporating several videogame-like aspects. These included use of gaming terminology such as “levels,” “weapons,” and “bosses”; a game-style point system linked to course grades; a self-paced schedule with no deadlines; a mastery design in which only entirely correct attempts earn credit, but students can retry until they succeed; immediate feedback via self-test code; an assignment progression from “minions” (small, focused tasks) to “level bosses” (integrative tasks); and believable, authentic assignment scenarios. Through semi-structured interviews and course evaluations, we found that a majority of students considered the courses effective and the game-like aspects beneficial. In particular, many claimed that the point system increased their motivation; the self-paced nature caused them to reflect on their self-discipline; the possibility and necessity of repeating assignments until perfect aided learning; and the authentic tasks helped them envision using course skills in their professional futures.
Pwning Level Bosses in MATLAB: Student Reactions to a Game-Inspired Computational Physics Course
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Created on 10/15/2015
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Proceedings of the 2014 Physics Education Research Conference
- Language: English
- Date: 2014
- Keywords
- Games, course design, mastery, motivation, engagement