Modding in Serious Games: Teaching Structured Query Language (SQL) Using NeverWinter Nights

Abstract

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GBL in Math Problem Solving: Is it Effective?

“…Most of the studies have been conducted with weel-defined problems in areas such as mathematics and science [25], [31]- [33]. However, more recent research has found similar effects in more ill-defined problem domains such as architecture [34]; cultural heritage [35]; engineering practice [13]; career guidance topics [36]; sectors of e-health and e-commerce [37]; teaching Structured Query Language [38]; music instruction [39]. In the present study, similar to previous studies, students opportunityto-learn with game-based learning were shown to be superior in learning outcomes.…”

Gaming for Ecological Activism: A Multidimensional Model for Networks Articulated Through Video Games

“…With this regard, many contributions discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the survival/crafting genre, of which Minecraft have been widely regarded to possess mechanical and structural features that resemble or align them more closely to real environments (Chang, 2019;Ekaputra et al, 2013, Kelly & Nardi, 2014Nguyen, 2016). Although selecting a fitting title may not be easy, the possibility to modify (or "mod") the game (Gee & Tran, 2015), for example, by tweaking its scenarios or changing certain rules (Soflano, 2011) constitutes a key factor for simulating real-world situations and controversies (de la Hera Conde-Pumpido, 2017). This may enable "applicable simulations" (Dishon & Kafai, 2022) that prepare players for a particular scenario, connecting the context to the gaming experience and opening the doors to educational uses that the game developers may not have encompassed during design.…”

Constructionist Learning in Anatomy Education

“…In higher education, the use of games is not only focused on learning a particular subject, such as using a bespoke serious game for learning a foreign language [27] and modding an existing game NeverWinter Nights to teach Structured Query Language (SQL) [29] etc., but also on the ability of the instrument to develop learning in general, e.g. to develop strategies for reading three-dimensional images, to develop learning through observation and hypothesis testing, to broaden the understanding of scientific simulations, and develop divided visual attention [12].…”

“…In higher education, educators tend to use virtual environments such as Second Life [5], [16] or modify COTS games (a.k.a. modding) [9], [29] in an educational setting.…”

“…These development tools could be very useful to lower the bar for the constructionist learning approach for students or for tutors to make instructionist games. Successful case studies include using a NeverWinter Nights mod to teach SQL [29] and using Garry's Mod, which was originally a Half-Life 2 mod, to teach molecular chemistry [10]. The game provides a physics sandbox and allows the lecturer to create a virtual object to represent a molecule structure that he can duplicate, pick up, move, connect them to one another and play around with.…”