Open Collections

Abstract

Serious games is a field that uses gamification and game design to engage users in learning and other non-entertainment purposes. This study aimed to conceptualize and test the potential of a serious game resource that would disseminate sexual health information to post-secondary students aged 18-29. The study comprised the development of a survey based on a review of the literature and the operationalization of game dimensions that could be used in the resource. The survey was distributed through convenience and snowball sampling. A total of 114 responses were included in the survey dataset. Findings indicated that sexual health education at the secondary school level varied greatly and was inconsistently delivered, with an emphasis on negative framing of prevention topics such as STIs, contraception, and abstinence. Sexual health topics both encountered and wanted in the post-secondary setting were discerned by respondents, with gaps identified between these which the proposed resource may address. Respondents’ post-secondary information seeking behaviours focused on digital methods and a desire for connection with medical experts and social resources. Based on respondents’ preferences for various game mechanics, mobile platforms, and interest in using a serious game to explore sexual health, several next steps for the design of a serious game resource are proposed - including critical areas of knowledge for the resource to address and further research needed to inform future design choices.