Academic Journal

Serious Video Games for Agricultural Learning: Scoping Review

Bibliographic Details
Title: Serious Video Games for Agricultural Learning: Scoping Review
Authors: Ismael E. Espinosa-Curiel (ORCID 0000-0002-3136-3256), Carlos A. Garcia de Alba-Chavez (ORCID 0000-0002-0699-2894)
Source: IEEE Transactions on Learning Technologies. 2024 17:1155-1169.
Abstract: Serious video games provide a immersive learning environment for agriculture by simulating real-life challenges scenarios. However, empirical evidence of their effectiveness is sparse. This scoping review follows PRISMA-ScR guidelines to summarize literature on serious video games for agricultural learning, highlighting research trends and identifying gaps. We systematically searched nine prominent research databases for papers on serious video games for agriculture learning published between January 2000 and July 2022. Two independent reviewers conducted screening, data extraction, and synthesized the collected data using a narrative approach. The initial search identified 3,297 articles, of which 0.58% (n = 19) were included in the review. Most reviewed games were released in the last five years, with a predominant presence in the mobile platform. They commonly employed a simulation-based approach, featuring 2-D graphics and designed for single-player experiences. These games mainly target students, focusing on crop production and sustainable agriculture. Educational theories were often unspecified in the studies. Evaluation protocols primarily consisted of pilot studies, emphasizing user experience and knowledge enhancement. Positive outcomes, such as improved user experiences, knowledge, and attitude and behavior changes, were commonly observed in these studies. This study highlights advancements in using serious video games for agricultural learning over 20 years. However, it stresses the need for deeper exploration of game elements' impact on user experience and effectiveness. Creating games for underrepresented players and specific agricultural challenges is essential, as is enhancing theoretical foundations and learning approaches. Rigorous research designs are vital for assessing game effectiveness across short, medium, and long terms.
Language: English
Availability: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. 445 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854. Tel: 732-981-0060; Web site: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/RecentIssue.jsp?punumber=4620076
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 15
Publication Date: 2024
Document Type: Journal Articles
Information Analyses
Descriptors: Educational Games, Agricultural Education, Video Games, Content Analysis, Handheld Devices, Telecommunications, Computer Simulation, Educational Technology, Technology Uses in Education, Educational Trends
DOI: 10.1109/TLT.2024.3364086
ISSN: 1939-1382
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2024
Accession Number: EJ1414674
ISSN: 1939-1382
DOI: 10.1109/TLT.2024.3364086
Database: ERIC