INSECT RACE 2.0: ENRICHING LEARNING EXPERIENCE USING A GAME-BASED LEARNING APPROACH INTEGRATED WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TOOLS

Abstract

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education is a significant platform to produce highly skilled workers and professionals to meet demands in the industrial and technological sectors in Malaysia. Despite the increasing efforts implemented by the government and the non-government organisations (NGOs) related to education system, the number of students enrolled in the STEM education from secondary schools to the higher-level institutions (college, matriculation, university) is quite worrying as many showed no interest to pursue further in this challenging field. However, not to feel discouraged by this situation, many educators are keen to initiate various efforts to provide enriched and inclusive methods in their teaching and learning to boost and uplift students’ motivation. As part of enriching students’ learning experience, we developed and implemented a game-based learning approach in one of our academic programme’s courses offered to the Zoological Technology’s undergraduates, namely, Entomology. In this course, students were exposed to the fundamental study about insects, covering topics related to their biology, physiology and ecology of these diverse animals. Hence, the Insect Race 2.0, a board game integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) tools is designed to cultivate students’ interest and enthusiasm in learning science, as well as to transform traditional pedagogical strategies of learning science into an enjoyable, engaging and interactive learning experience among learners. Based on a survey conducted among the players, majority of the respondents provided positive feedbacks and commendations, indicating the efficacy of the Insect Race 2.0 game. Overall, this board game serves as a valuable tool to diversify teaching and learning approaches in science subjects and useful to fill the knowledge gap in insect-themed educational games. In conclusion, teaching delivery of STEM education using AI integrated game-based learning approach could boost students’ interest and create a fun, interactive and cooperative learning more effectively.