Designing an Educational Game Evaluation Framework Based on Game Mechanics

Abstract

Children in everyday life are increasingly using educational games. However, the quality of each of the many educational games available varies. Some evaluation frameworks exist, but most are prone to the evaluator’s subjectivity, which cannot be compared objectively. This study aims to formulate a framework that evaluates the quality of educational games objectively based on the game mechanics used. The framework is built upon Bloom’s taxonomy as the basis to ascertain the academic side and MDA (Mechanics-Dynamics-Aesthetics) Framework to distinguish the game side. Then, it assesses each educational mechanic based on a standard in the evaluation framework to obtain an accurate, quantifiable score as a measure. Validation of the framework involves using the framework to evaluate existing educational games and comparing the results with expert reviews. With this framework, an educational game quality can be measured objectively and quantitatively based on the technical and fundamental elements that exist in each game.