Digital Gesture-Based Games: An Evolving Classroom

Introduction To This Study

The study incorporated different disciplines and while doing so, developed a game-based learning solution for the Irish mathematics classroom. It is important from the outset to clarify the different disciplines involved in this research and to identify the main focus. The main focus is on the development of a gesture-based game and this ties in areas of other disciplines, as shown in the diagram below. The diagram shows that aspects of game-based learning (GBL), gesture-based technology (GBT), technology in the classroom and mathematics education were all involved in the design and development of a gesture-based game.

The research undertaken is timely given mathematics education in Ireland at the time the study was being pursued. The Irish mathematics curriculum underwent major changes in recent times (Brosnan, 2008). The curriculum was revamped and constructivist principles were emphasised. These included the need for mathematical discussion and justification to be part of the new curriculum, namely Project Maths. Project Maths was as a result of consultation with teachers a few years previously and the global decline in students undertaking higher levels of mathematics (Watt et al., 2012). The country was facing a deficit of mathematics graduates for the economy to thrive in terms of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). It is a well-known phenomenon known as the leaky STEM pipeline (Watt et al, 2012).

As a result of these new changes in the curriculum, teacher resources were made for the curriculum and interests were raised in terms of gamification¹ as well as GBL. GBL has gained tremendous support with respect to its benefits. Researchers purported findings such as increased levels of motivation (Annetta, Minogue, Holmes, & Cheng, 2009), flow, improved mathematics achievement (Bai, Pan, Hirumi, & Kebritchi, 2013), engagement, improved attitudes towards schooling and interest (Miller & Robertson, 2011). These proclaim a vast array of benefits, although, there are challenges ahead for game-based learning. Games need to confront the many demands they have on them today with as many genres as games themselves. Games are composed of many genres and just like the film industry is expanding rapidly as studios are investing in greater numbers. Games with a specific purpose also known as serious games face more challenges. Serious games in mathematics need to tie together mathematics, interaction with players and an immersive experience while also straddling specific learning outcomes when used within the classroom. Schools and classrooms are summoned to contest in terms of emerging technologies and the rapidly changing environment (Philips, Kennedy, & McNaught, 2012). Advantages are realised when the game is designed proficiently, as determined by Pivec and Pivec (2011). According to Pivec and Pivec (2011), games need to be designed correctly, need to be used in the appropriate environment and finally, employ a suitable pedagogical framework. This article offers recommendations for the classroom and school while mentioning the most suitable pedagogical framework, its main focus is the game design. Therefore, the following section discusses existing games in mathematics education and their potential benefits within the classroom environment.

Background To The Study

Ireland has undergone major reforms in terms of the mathematics curriculum with the introduction of a new curriculum, Project Maths. This curriculum has encouraged teachers to adopt constructivist and collaborative teaching practices. Even after its development in 2011, teachers are being encouraged to use alternative teaching approaches that encourage more discussion and collaboration in the mathematics classroom. The practices are still not appearing in the mathematics classroom (Brosnan, 2013).