Digital Games, Design, and Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Digital Games, Design, and Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Digital Games, Design, and Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

By Douglas B Clark, Emily E Tanner-Smith and Stephen S Killingsworth

Abstract

“In this meta-analysis, we systematically reviewed research on digital games and learning for K-16 students. We synthesized comparisons of game versus nongame conditions (i.e., media comparisons) and comparisons of augmented games versus standard game designs (i.e., value-added comparisons). We used random-effects meta-regression models with robust variance estimates to summarize overall effects and explore potential moderator effects. Results from media comparisons indicated that digital games significantly enhanced student learning relative to nongame conditions ([Formula: see text] = 0.33, 95% confidence interval [0.19, 0.48], k = 57, n = 209). Results from value-added comparisons indicated significant learning benefits associated with augmented game designs ([Formula: see text] = 0.34, 95% confidence interval [0.17, 0.51], k = 20, n = 40). Moderator analyses demonstrated that effects varied across various game mechanics characteristics, visual and narrative characteristics, and research quality characteristics. Taken together, the results highlight the affordances of games for learning as well as the key role of design beyond medium.”

Reference

Clark, D. B., Tanner-Smith, E. E., & Killingsworth, S. S. (2016). Digital Games, design, and Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Review of Educational Research, 86(1), 79–122. https://doi.org/10.3102/0034654315582065

Keyword

Digital games, learning, systematic review, research