PERC 2014 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Pwning Level Bosses in MATLAB: Student Reactions to a Game-Inspired Computational Physics Course |
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| Abstract: | We investigated student reactions to a Computational Physics course incorporating several 'videogame-like' aspects. These included use of gaming terminology such as "levels," "weapons," and "bosses"; a game-style point system linked to course grades; a self-paced schedule with no deadlines; a mastery design in which only entirely correct attempts earn credit, but students can retry until they succeed; immediate feedback via self-test code; and an assignment progression from "minions" (small, focused tasks) to "level bosses" (integrative, authentic tasks). Through semi-structured interviews at the end of the semester, we found that a majority of students enjoyed the course and found the game-like aspects beneficial. More than half claimed that the point system increased their motivation; the self-paced nature caused them to reflect on their self-discipline; the possibility and necessity of repeating assignments until perfect supported learning more material; and the authentic tasks helped them envision using course skills in their professional futures. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Ian D. Beatty University of North Carolina at Greensboro |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Lauren Harris, University of North Carolina at Greensboro |
Contributed Paper | |
| Contributed Paper: | Download the Contributed Paper |
Contributed Poster | |
| Contributed Poster: | Download the Contributed Poster |
