As artificial intelligence rapidly advances, the ability to think critically and solve complex problems logically is becoming increasingly important. In a society shaped by generative AI, individuals who possess critical thinking skills are less likel...
As artificial intelligence rapidly advances, the ability to think critically and solve complex problems logically is becoming increasingly important. In a society shaped by generative AI, individuals who possess critical thinking skills are less likely to be replaced by artificial intelligence. However, in South Korea, the growing percentage of students failing to meet basic proficiency in mathematics is creating a serious issue of learning gaps. Mathematics, as a subject, is highly hierarchical, meaning that gaps in foundational knowledge significantly impact subsequent learning. Game-based learning can serve as an effective solution to address this issue by fostering students’ interest in mathematics and encouraging active engagement with the subject.
Nevertheless, most existing game-based learning programs focus primarily on stimulating extrinsic motivation, which makes it challenging for learners to continue studying mathematics autonomously after discontinuing the game. This study seeks to overcome such limitations by developing a new type of game-based learning that promotes sustained and self-directed learning in mathematics. By applying the principles of Self-Determination Theory, the game-based learning program is designed to stimulate intrinsic motivation, guiding learners toward a more autonomous approach to studying mathematics. Specifically, this research aims to develop a game-based learning model that enhances intrinsic motivation for mathematics, thoroughly examine its effectiveness, and identify areas for improvement.
To achieve these goals, the study employs a design-based research (DBR) methodology. A design team consisting of a field expert, a theoretical expert, and a programming expert was formed to ensure a close connection with educational practice. Through iterative discussions and reviews, design principles grounded in Self-Determination Theory were established. These principles were then applied to develop a digital game-based learning program. The intervention was implemented with 73 middle school students, with data collected across 7 sessions. During the first session, participants completed a pre-test assessing intrinsic motivation for mathematics and a diagnostic evaluation of mathematics achievement. The second to fourth sessions involved engaging in the game-based learning activities, and in the fifth session, a post-test was administered to measure changes in intrinsic motivation. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the top 10% and bottom 10% of participants based on their changes in motivation scores, and a delayed post-test for measuring intrinsic motivation on mathematics was conducted one month after the intervention.
The results demonstrated that game-based learning significantly enhanced intrinsic motivation for mathematics. Participants showed notable improvements in interest toward the subject, and this interest was maintained or further increased even after ceasing playing the game. Mid-level learners benefited the most from the intervention. Furthermore, the findings revealed that intrinsic motivation improved most significantly among learners who adhered to game rules and utilized game features to achieve personal goals without engaging in interactions with peers during gameplay.
This study makes both practical and academic contributions. First, it extends the application of Self-Determination Theory by demonstrating its effectiveness in the context of game-based learning. Second, it empirically confirms the efficacy of game-based learning in fostering and enhancing intrinsic motivation for mathematics. Third, it emphasizes the necessity of instructional support from teachers when implementing game-based learning in real-world educational settings. Overall, this research provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of game-based learning on intrinsic motivation in mathematics education. It also explores the behavioral patterns of learners that influence motivational improvements, offering a theoretical foundation for the sustainable integration of game-based learning in both academic research and practical education.