Evaluating scaffolding in serious games focuses on how gradual removal of guidance impacts children's gameplay experience and knowledge gain. Chinedu Okwudili Obikwelu explores the effectiveness of scaffolding techniques in educational gaming contexts. The study investigates various dimensions of gameplay experience, including competence, immersion, and flow, while comparing different scaffolding modes. This research is particularly relevant for educators and game designers aiming to enhance learning outcomes through effective game mechanics.

Key Points

  • Investigates the impact of scaffolding fading on children's gameplay experience
  • Analyzes competence, immersion, and flow in serious games
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230 pages
Biology
newtopiccyclegrowin
230 pages
Biology
381
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Evaluating Scaffolding in Serious Games with Children
By
Chinedu Okwudili Obikwelu
A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment for the requirements for the degree of Doctor of
Philosophy at the University of Central Lancashire
March 2017
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STUDENT DECLARATION
Concurrent registration for two or more academic awards
I declare that while registered as a candidate for the research degree, I have not been a registered
candidate or enrolled student for another award of the University or other academic or
Professional institution
Material submitted for another award
I declare that no material contained in the thesis has been used in any other submission for an
academic award and is solely my own work
Signature of Candidate ______________________________________________________
Type of Award ________________________________________________________
School _________________________________________________________
PhD
Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences
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ABSTRACT
In scaffolding, full support (guidance) is given to the learner to support weakness and withdrawn bit
by bit as learner knowledge fortifies (fading) (Martens & Maciuszek, 2013). According to
Puntambekar & Hubscher (2005), the attributes of scaffolding include diagnosis, calibration and
fading. Research work on scaffolding in serious games – games with other purposes other than
entertainment, has mainly focused on diagnosis and calibration often referred to in this field as player
modelling and adaptivity respectively. There is barely any empirical study investigating fading this in
these games. Instead of fading which is the gradual removal of scaffolding, an all-or-nothing approach
is often used. The all-or-nothing could lead to cognitive overload in children. For children to have a
pleasurable gameplay, it is important the cognitive load is managed effectively. The fundamental
question asked in this thesis is “To what extent can scaffolding-fading improve children’s gameplay
experience and knowledge gain?” This is broken down to four research questions – 1. Does the
gradual removal of guidance improve children’s gameplay experience? 2. What dimensions of
gameplay experience are impacted and to what extent are they impacted by the gradual removal of
guidance? 3. Would guidance fading during gameplay improve knowledge gain? 4. What effect would
inappropriate guidance-fading have on gameplay?
A game in which the scaffolding can be manipulated is designed for this study. A comparative study
methodology with a controlled experiment, comparing gameplay in both the gradual removal and the
all-or-nothing mode, is employed with the aim of measuring gameplay experience and knowledge
gain in these modes. Analytics was also employed to capture performance-related gameplay metrics.
These methods were combined for a more substantial explanation of findings.
The key contributions made include – 1. Appropriately implementing guidance-fading for the first
time in a game AND highlighting the relevance of this scaffolding mode to serious gameplay
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FAQs

What is the main focus of the study on scaffolding in serious games?
The study primarily focuses on evaluating how different scaffolding techniques, particularly the gradual removal of guidance, affect children's gameplay experience and knowledge acquisition. By comparing the gradual removal method to an all-or-nothing approach, the research aims to identify which method enhances learning outcomes more effectively. The findings are significant for educators and game developers looking to improve educational games.
What dimensions of gameplay experience are measured in this research?
The research measures several dimensions of gameplay experience, including competence, immersion, flow, challenge, tension, positive affect, and negative affect. Each dimension provides insights into how children engage with the game and their emotional responses during gameplay. This comprehensive approach allows for a detailed understanding of the factors that contribute to an effective learning experience in serious games.
How does the gradual removal of scaffolding impact children's learning outcomes?
The gradual removal of scaffolding is shown to significantly improve learning outcomes compared to no scaffolding. This method allows children to build confidence and competence as they progress through the game. The study indicates that when guidance is faded appropriately, children are more likely to retain knowledge and apply it effectively, leading to better overall educational results.
What are the implications of the research findings for game designers?
The findings suggest that game designers should consider implementing gradual scaffolding techniques to enhance user engagement and learning outcomes. By carefully managing the level of guidance provided, designers can create more effective educational games that cater to children's cognitive development. This research highlights the importance of balancing challenge and support to optimize the gameplay experience.

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