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Beyond position: exploring player traits and their impact on the player's experience with an infinite leaderboard in a digital maths game

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17083/ijsg.v11i4.794

Keywords:

Game Design, Maths Anxiety, Digital Game-Based Learning

Abstract

Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL) uses digital games to enhance engagement and learning. The efficacy of DGBL is linked to game features. Leaderboards are a commonly used feature to increase motivation through competition, improving engagement and learning outcomes. However, infinite leaderboards, displaying all players in an ordered ranking based on their scores, can demotivate players depending on their performance and characteristics. This study investigated primary school students' experience with an infinite leaderboard during a digital math game intervention. A total of 1389 Irish students participated in a 6-week DGBL programme with the game “Seven Spells,” featuring such a leaderboard. Data on player traits were gathered via questionnaires, while opinions on the leaderboard and game were collected through surveys and comments. Findings revealed that leaderboard enjoyment was influenced by players’ leaderboard positions and their math anxiety levels. Additionally, the leaderboard experience correlated with their overall game experience. These insights imply that game designers should account for player traits when incorporating leaderboards into math games to avoid potential negative impacts on the gaming experience.

Author Biographies

  • Mariana Rocha, Technological University Dublin

    Assistant Lecturer (School of Computer Science)

  • Pierpaolo Dondio, Technological University Dublin

    Lecturer (School of Computer Science)

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Published

2024-11-21

Versions

Issue

Section

GaLA Conf 2023 Special Issue

How to Cite

Beyond position: exploring player traits and their impact on the player’s experience with an infinite leaderboard in a digital maths game. (2024). International Journal of Serious Games, 11(4), 173-196. https://doi.org/10.17083/ijsg.v11i4.794

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