Learning Mechanics and Game Mechanics Under the Perspective of Self-Determination Theory to Foster Motivation in Digital Game Based Learning

TL;DR

This paper explores how understanding learning and game mechanics through Self-Determination Theory can enhance motivation in digital game-based learning, addressing a gap in psychological analysis of DGBL.

Contribution

It introduces a novel framework linking SDT with game and learning mechanics specifically in the context of digital game-based learning.

Findings

Identifies key psychological factors influencing motivation in DGBL

Proposes a model integrating SDT with game mechanics

Highlights the importance of autonomy, competence, relatedness

Abstract

Background: Using digital games for educational purposes has been associated with higher levels of motivation among learners of different educational levels. However, the underlying psychological factors involved in digital game based learning (DGBL) have been rarely analyzed considering self-determination theory (SDT, Ryan \& Deci, 2000b); the relation of SDT with the flow experience (Csikszentmihalyi, 1990) has neither been evaluated in the context of DGBL.