Key elements in the development of a digital prototype of an educational video game, memory match finnish

Abstract

This thesis covers the development of a digital prototype of an educational game to start learning the Finnish language, using the information retrieved from the development process and game tests to identify the key elements in the development of an educational game. The research methods include a literature review of previous studies on the topic, market and competitors’ analysis, tests with users, and users’ feedback. The findings of this research include the identification of iterative tests both on paper and digital, as the most crucial aspect of the development process, as well as a balance of the game mechanics with the educational objectives of the game. Other elements that showed to be important are the usability of the prototype, the use of spaced repetition, and the combination of images and sound to enhance the recollection of vocabulary. This thesis consolidates the already existing literature on the topic, as well as contributes to showing a step-by-step development process that can be useful for developers interested in delving into the field of educational game design.