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Spatial reasoning is an important skillset that is malleable to training interventions. One possible context for intervention is the popular video game Minecraft. Minecraft encourages users to engage in spatial manipulation of 3D objects. However, few papers have chronicled any in-game practices that might evidence spatial reasoning, or how we might study its development through the game. In this paper, we report on 11 middle school students’ spatial reasoning practices while playing Minecraft. We use audio and video data of student gameplay to delineate five in-game practices that align with spatial reasoning. We expand on a student case study, to explicate these practices. The identified practices may be beneficial for studying spatial reasoning development in game-based environments and contribute to a growing body of research on ways games support development of important and transferable skills.
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A qualitative look at fostering computational thinking within a game-based learning environment
This study explored how participants practice computational thinking (CT) concepts and skills while playing the game. Regarding 11 learning standards from the Computer Science Teacher Association (CSTA), researchers designed gameplay tasks in Minecraft and a supplemental platform called Minecraft Factory Planner (MFP). Data was collected through the cognitive walkthrough with a think-aloud method and semi-structured retrospective interview. The results showed that different game tasks triggered gameplay actions that allowed the practice of different CT skills.
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- Award ID(s):
- 1933848
- PAR ID:
- 10656507
- Publisher / Repository:
- International Conference of the Learning Sciences (ICLS)
- Date Published:
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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