Enhancing Literary Understanding in Secondary Education through Role Playing Games
Faculty Mentor
Shamima Yasmin
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
5-8-2024 11:15 AM
End Date
5-8-2024 1:00 PM
Location
PUB NCR
Primary Discipline of Presentation
Computer Science
Abstract
This project explores the idea of video games in secondary education. As part of our research in game-based learning, the classic epic poem Beowulf, widely taught in higher secondary schools, has been adapted into a role-playing game (RPG). The core objective is to refresh literary education by offering an engaging and interactive platform for a deeper understanding and appreciation of this classic work. The Unity game engine has been used as the implementation platform. In the game, players navigate the legendary village of Heorot as described in the original poem, engage with non-player-controlled (NPC) characters who offer insights and narrative progression, and confront challenges that mirror the poem's key events. The gameplay is enriched with boss fights and cutscenes that bring Beowulf's story to life.
This project stands at the intersection of literature, education, and gaming, offering a unique perspective on how traditional teaching of literary works is reimagined for modern learning environments and better engagement. Preliminary observations suggest a positive influence on student engagement and comprehension of the poem, as a local schoolteacher teaching Beowulf commented. The user study aims to evaluate the efficacy of game-based learning quantitatively and qualitatively in higher secondary education. This project represents a novel approach to teaching classic literature and contributes to the broader scope for innovative educational styles in the digital age.
Recommended Citation
Snyder, Bryan C., "Enhancing Literary Understanding in Secondary Education through Role Playing Games" (2024). 2024 Symposium. 42.
https://dc.ewu.edu/srcw_2024/ps_2024/p2_2024/42
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Enhancing Literary Understanding in Secondary Education through Role Playing Games
PUB NCR
This project explores the idea of video games in secondary education. As part of our research in game-based learning, the classic epic poem Beowulf, widely taught in higher secondary schools, has been adapted into a role-playing game (RPG). The core objective is to refresh literary education by offering an engaging and interactive platform for a deeper understanding and appreciation of this classic work. The Unity game engine has been used as the implementation platform. In the game, players navigate the legendary village of Heorot as described in the original poem, engage with non-player-controlled (NPC) characters who offer insights and narrative progression, and confront challenges that mirror the poem's key events. The gameplay is enriched with boss fights and cutscenes that bring Beowulf's story to life.
This project stands at the intersection of literature, education, and gaming, offering a unique perspective on how traditional teaching of literary works is reimagined for modern learning environments and better engagement. Preliminary observations suggest a positive influence on student engagement and comprehension of the poem, as a local schoolteacher teaching Beowulf commented. The user study aims to evaluate the efficacy of game-based learning quantitatively and qualitatively in higher secondary education. This project represents a novel approach to teaching classic literature and contributes to the broader scope for innovative educational styles in the digital age.
