Al-Kimia: How to Create a Video Game to Help High School Students Enjoy Chemistry

Abstract

This chapter describes the creation process of “Al-Kimia”, a video game targeted at Spanish high school students that aims to generate positive attitudes towards Chemistry (and Science in general) amongst its players. It is hoped that this will provide a useful reference to guide the development of similar titles in the future.

Firstly, it explores the reasons why a video game was chosen as a resource to achieve educational objectives. Secondly, the effectiveness of game-based learning has been analysed, with references to the available literature.

One of the key sections of the chapter describes the process that was followed to define the structure of the video game. Hunicke’s Triad (mechanics–dynamics–aesthetics), Schell’s Elemental Tetrad (aesthetics–mechanics–technology–story) and Kiili’s Experiential Gaming Model are theoretical frameworks that were reviewed. In order to meet the requirements of the project, a new hybrid framework for the design of educational video games was created.

A more detailed description of the project’s development provides an example of how this theoretical framework was used in a real-world situation. The challenges that were faced by the team and the steps that were taken to overcome them are also described.

Finally, this chapter focuses on the research studies that have been designed to measure the impact of the game amongst its target audience, as well as the lessons learnt from the whole development process.