Introducing the Physics of Complex Systems through Videogames

TL;DR

This study explores using videogames as an engaging educational tool to teach complex physics topics like phase transitions and synchronization to high school students, aiming to improve motivation and understanding.

Contribution

It introduces a novel pedagogical approach by integrating specially designed videogames to communicate complex scientific concepts in secondary education.

Findings

Students showed increased engagement and motivation.

Videogames facilitated better understanding of complex physics topics.

Positive feedback on enjoyment and perceived learning effectiveness.

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to explore a teaching methodology aimed at communicating topics and subjects not typically studied and analyzed in the (Italian) secondary school. We focused specifically on the use of videogames as a recreational and educational tool, grounding our approach in a broadened conceptual view in which engagement and attentional allocation interact with motivational and affective components of play. Within this perspective, the playful format is considered not only to enhance motivation and enjoyment, but also to attenuate learners' counter-arguing tendencies when confronted with unfamiliar or abstract material. Building on this framework, we developed or adapted several videogames whose central scientific topics are phase transitions, sensitivity to initial conditions, and synchronization. We had a certain number of high school students playing the games, and we asked them several questions to guide them and determine whether the communication was successful. At the end of the activity, we administered a questionnaire about the enjoyment and the difficulties encountered in each game, and the relevant critics.