Interest in the Game Citizen Science

Matthew Gaydos and Amanda Barany

Abstract

Although researchers have suggested that video games may help students develop interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics domains, few studies have investigated the relationship between the game's design, player interest and learning outcomes. This study presents pilot data of a survey instrument being developed to measure student interest related to the game Citizen Science. It investigates three topic areas presented in the game: lake ecology, civic participation, and educational video gaming. It is the first study in a series proposed to account for targeted interest development and its relationship to the design of the educational game. Implications for targeted interest development in an educational video game setting are discussed.