AI Odyssey: Designing and Evaluating a Board Game for Family-Based AI Literacy

Abstract

AI is becoming an increasingly integral part of society and daily life, making AI literacy more essential for the general population. Current research on AI literacy instruction is still in its infancy, primarily focusing on formal learning, and many require digital devices to participate. Moreover, there is a limited number of qualified teachers, and available instructional materials may not always be sufficient. These challenges can have an outsized impact on children and families of lower socioeconomic status, exacerbating the digital divide. Therefore, we created a non-digital board game called AI Odyssey, intended to promote AI literacy by providing an accessible learning experience without requiring a qualified teacher or digital device. This study outlines the process of creating the game and an in-depth analysis of an initial exploratory study. A variety of data, including pre- and post-tests of AI literacy, surveys of self-efficacy, interest, parental support, and career choice, as well as video recordings of playing sessions and interviews, are analyzed. The results paint a positive picture of using AI Odyssey to increase understanding and interest in AI literacy. Lessons learned and future directions are also discussed.