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Identifying Key Design Elements for Developing Educational Games : A Game-Based Learning Approach in STEAM Education Saldarriaga, Sebastian

Abstract

This study investigates Game-Based Learning (GBL) as a dynamic pedagogical approach within STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education. Drawing on a systematic literature review, the paper examines the design elements that contribute to the effectiveness of GBL experiences, such as interactive mechanics, challenge design, and adaptive feedback. Particular attention is given to how these elements align with instructional frameworks and influence student motivation, engagement, and conceptual understanding. The findings reveal that while GBL holds considerable potential to enrich learning, its impact depends on the intentional integration of pedagogical objectives with inclusive and context-aware game design. The study also identifies persistent challenges in GBL adoption and offers evidence-based recommendations to inform future research and practice in STEAM education.

Item Metadata

Title
Identifying Key Design Elements for Developing Educational Games : A Game-Based Learning Approach in STEAM Education
Creator
Saldarriaga, Sebastian
Date Issued
2025-05-01
Description
This study investigates Game-Based Learning (GBL) as a dynamic pedagogical approach within STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education. Drawing on a systematic literature review, the paper examines the design elements that contribute to the effectiveness of GBL experiences, such as interactive mechanics, challenge design, and adaptive feedback. Particular attention is given to how these elements align with instructional frameworks and influence student motivation, engagement, and conceptual understanding. The findings reveal that while GBL holds considerable potential to enrich learning, its impact depends on the intentional integration of pedagogical objectives with inclusive and context-aware game design. The study also identifies persistent challenges in GBL adoption and offers evidence-based recommendations to inform future research and practice in STEAM education.
Subject
Game-Based Learning; STEAM education; engagement; educational game design; motivation; serious games
Genre
Working Paper
Type
Text
Language
eng
Series
University of British Columbia. EDCP_V 580
Date Available
2025-05-14
Provider
Vancouver : University of British Columbia Library
Rights
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International
DOI
10.14288/1.0448894
URI
http://hdl.handle.net/2429/91138
Affiliation
Education, Faculty of; Curriculum and Pedagogy (EDCP), Department of
Campus
UBCV
Peer Review Status
Reviewed
Scholarly Level
Graduate
Rights URI
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International