Spaced repetition learning games on mobile devices. Issue 3 (9th September 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Markus Ketterl, Dr; Christopher Brooks, Dr; Florian Schimanke, Mr; Schimanke, Florian; Mertens, Robert; Vornberger, Oliver
• Is Part Of: Interactive technology and smart education. Volume 11:Issue 3(2014)
• Page Start: 201
• Page End: 222
• Publication Date: 2014-09-09
• Subjects: Interactive multimedia -- Periodicals; Educational technology -- Periodicals; 006.7
• DOI: 10.1108/ITSE-07-2014-0017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1741-5659

Abstract

<abstract> <title> <x content-type="archive" xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Purpose</title> <p> – The purposes of this paper are to implement a spaced repetition algorithm into a learning game, analyze the pros and cons of this implementation and make different considerations about designing the game to make the algorithm work in an optimal way. While games offer a promising way of engaging and motivating learners to deal with a certain topic, repetitions foster immersing this topic sustainably. Those repetitions should be done at sophistically determined intervals to maximize learning outcomes. </p> </sec> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Design/methodology/approach</title> <p> – The work is implemented as two prototype learning games which use the SM2 algorithm for content selection and repetition scheduling. Based on our findings about user behavior, this study developed an auxiliary algorithm to aid SM2 in the special setting of a learning game. To design the game in a way which supports the spaced repetition approach, this study have analyzed best-practices in this domain and made some considerations for adapting them accordingly. </p> </sec> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Findings</title> <p> – An auxiliary algorithm is needed to support the usage of common spaced repetition algorithms in mobile learning games. Best-practices in designing those games need to be to suit the spaced repetitions approach. </p> </sec> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Practical implications</title> <p> – This paper shows the benefits of combining learning games with the spaced repetition approach and points out specifics in designing spaced repetition based mobile learning games. </p> </sec> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Originality/value</title> <p> – While spaced repetitions are already commonly used with other types of learning, it has yet to be implemented in learning games. This study's approach shows ways to do this and which considerations have to be made.</p> </sec> </abstract>