GeoExplorer and Gender Identity: The Impact of Gender in a Game-Based Learning Environment

Simrun Mutha, Alexa Deeter, Jen Sundstrom, Yevgeniya V. Zastavker, Casper Harteveld, Victoria Bennett, Tarek Abdoun

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

This Work-in-Progress research paper focuses on the game-based learning environment of GeoExplorer, a digital learning tool that simulates Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) - a field test that civil engineers conduct to understand soil properties. This paper aims to investigate the gendered patterns of student interaction with GeoExplorer, if any, and the associated gendered patterns of content comprehension and self-efficacy related to one's ability to pursue CPT in the field, if any. As such, we ask: (1) How, if at all, does gender affect a student's belief in their ability to apply skills gained through engagement with GeoExplorer in real world environments? and (2) How, if at all, do prior gaming experience and gender impact the GeoExplorer play experience? Four open-ended semi-structured interviews regarding students' experience with gameplay, gender identity, and learning were analyzed. Preliminary analyses used narrative and grounded theory approaches. Our early findings indicate a lack of student insight on the role of their gender identity on their gameplay experience and the presence of a gendered impact of gameplay on student learning and self-efficacy in carrying out CPT in the field.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication2023 IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference, FIE 2023 - Proceedings
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
ISBN (Electronic)9798350336429
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023
Event53rd IEEE ASEE Frontiers in Education International Conference, FIE 2023 - College Station, United States
Duration: Oct 18 2023Oct 21 2023

Publication series

NameProceedings - Frontiers in Education Conference, FIE
ISSN (Print)1539-4565

Conference

Conference53rd IEEE ASEE Frontiers in Education International Conference, FIE 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityCollege Station
Period10/18/2310/21/23

Keywords

  • civil engineering
  • game-based learning
  • gender
  • self-efficacy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Software
  • Education
  • Computer Science Applications

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