Fun to Learn: Using Hello World() videogame to motivate children in learning code

Abstract

The videogame industry has grown rapidly in the last years to lead the entertainment industry. In addition, considering how engaging videogames are, they have become tools for a variety of means, even in the educational context. However, the engagement found in entertainment games might not be successfully executed when it comes to learning games. This study aimed to understand learning games to design Hello World (), a learning game for Langinkosken Koulu (elementary school in Kotka).

The research analyzes the motivational factors from both the psychological and the game design perspectives. The theoretical foundations were established through an extensive literature review, questionnaires with the target audience, and two interviews with professionals. In this first part, the research defined learning games, how learning occurs and how to apply fun in the process.

The second part of this thesis explained how Hello World() applied the findings into the game design. The core mechanics were supported by the foundations established prior, and different features were designed to enhance the experience of the audience.

Hello World() succeed in parts. However, the project would need more time to iterate on the findings and implement its final version.