Abstract:

Educational computer games have become increasingly popular among educators. However, the field has limited experience designing or implementing effective educational computer games. Empirical research should be conducted to develop a knowledge base that provides guidance for educators. This paper presents a research agenda that helps researchers systemically address issues related to the development and implementation of educational computer games. This agenda focuses on research issues in the and following areas: problem presentation, facilitation and scaffolding strategies, formative assessment, learner agency, settings for educational game use, facilitator knowledge, attitude and roles, as well as learner differences. The authors argue that design-based and research may inform the methodology for research on educational computer games. It may help generate research-based models and guidelines for developing and implementing educational computer games.