The Development and Evaluation of a 3D Simulation Game for Chemistry Learning: Exploration of Learners’ Flow, Acceptance, and Sense of Directions

Abstract

Among various educational technology, computer game could be one of the most popular applications in recent years. Nowadays, computer games can provide a 3-dimensional (3D) immersive virtual world to increase learners’ perception of presence and simulate the real world objects to support learning. The immersive learning environment, visualization of abstract concepts, and high level of interaction could benefit learners’ engagement and learning outcomes. Despite previous studies have investigated the influential factors of educational gaming experience, however, in the 3D virtual world, learners might need other ability, such as sense of directions (SOD), for them to be acquainted with the virtual environment and thus can learn better. This preliminary study developed a 3D educational game to support chemistry learning. In the game, learners were to explore the virtual world to collect components for they can assemble a charcoal battery to achieve the game goal. A case study of 20 participants was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the game. Results suggested that participants gained better knowledge after playing the game. Meanwhile, participants with better SOD can more clearly capture the game goals and feel in control in the game, suggesting they were immersing in the game. Moreover, they also evaluate the game as useful to support their learning. A test of gender difference found that male and female evaluated the game in different way. Implications for the results of this study are to be used as guidance for subsequent game development and design of instructional strategies.