Play with Purpose: A Heuristic Approach to Evaluating Tabletop Serious Games for Academic Integrity Education

Authors

  • Lance Bunt North-West University
  • Byron Bunt Unit for Self-Directed Learning
  • Veruschka Pelser-Carstens Technology Enhanced Learning and Innovative Education and Training in South Africa (TELIT-SA) https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3870-5834
  • Gordon Matthew Technology Enhanced Learning and Innovative Education and Training in South Africa (TELIT-SA) https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3952-5413

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34190/ecgbl.18.1.2879

Keywords:

Heuristic Evaluation, Game Design, Tabletop Serious Games, Academic Integrity

Abstract

This article introduces a heuristic evaluation of CiteSaga, a tabletop serious game designed to enhance skills in referencing and citation, crucial for academic writing in higher education. We detail the application and outcomes of a novel heuristic evaluation framework tailored for tabletop serious games, dubbed "Play with Purpose." This framework is distinguished by its focus on eight essential categories: Learning Experience, Utility, Game Features, Social Dynamics, Adaptability, Learning and Feedback, Play Experience, and Accessibility, marking a significant contribution to the evaluation of non-digital game-based learning tools. Furthermore, we delve into the insights gained from participatory design sessions with students, aimed at evaluating CiteSaga's component appeal and game mechanics. The paper culminates in a discussion on how student feedback has informed subsequent iterations of CiteSaga, underscoring the critical role of heuristic evaluations in refining game-based learning experiences. Our findings not only advance understanding of empirical evaluation methodologies for tabletop serious games but also provide a valuable framework for future research and development in educational game design.

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Published

2024-10-07