Enhancing Teacher Candidates’ Skills in Developing Game-Based Learning Applications

Authors : Abdullah Alagöz, Ömer Uysal

Pages : 991-1050

Doi:10.14812/cuefd.1611305

View : 182 | Download : 225

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The integration of technology into education has led to a broadening of the range of instructional activities. Among these, digital educational games, which resonate with Generation Z, stand out. These games introduce innovations in teaching by improving knowledge retention and providing engaging learning experiences both in and outside of the classroom. It is essential for educators to adapt to these innovations. This study aims to explore the views of prospective teachers in Turkey on game-based learning tools and assess the effectiveness of a specially designed instructional program for educational digital games. The research was carried out with 13 prospective teachers from the Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technologies at Uludağ University Faculty of Education. Employing a mixed-methods approach, a distinct instructional program was created to equip participants with the skills necessary to develop educational digital games using the GDevelop software. In the quantitative dimension of the study, pre-tests and post-tests were administered to evaluate the reliability and validity of the achievement test, and data analysis was performed accordingly. In the qualitative phase, participants were interviewed at the end of the study using a semi-structured form containing 14 questions. The findings revealed that the Wilcoxon signed-rank test applied in the quantitative analysis showed a statistically significant improvement in the participants’ abilities to develop educational digital games, confirming the effectiveness of the instructional program. Qualitative data analysis highlighted that participants felt the study had enhanced their ability to develop game-based learning applications. They noted that the specially designed games aligned with the instructional program could serve as effective tools to reinforce learning, capture students\\\' attention, and boost motivation. Moreover, the program was found to support the development of 21st-century skills, while enhancing teachers\\\' capabilities in game design and problem-solving. From the students’ perspective, the developed games were perceived as motivating, enjoyable, and engaging.
Keywords : eğitsel dijital oyun, eğitimde oyun ve oyunlaştırma, gdevelop, oyun tabanlı öğrenme

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