The Effects of DGBL on the Mathematics Achievement
Proposal
Bowie State University
Kathryn Procope
EDAD 900
Dr. Sean Coleman

Background

• African American students have not demonstrated consistent or significant gains in mathematics achievement compared to other ethnic groups

NAEP % of Students at or above Proficient Level in Mathematics - 2013

Untitled Slide

Statistics on Who is Playing Video Games based on Pew Research

What is

What is Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL)?

• DGBL encourages the learner to seek additional material on the subject outside game play or requires outside research to play the game better.

What is Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL)?

• Encompasses defined learning objectives are achieved through digital game play
• DGBL contains an instructional design methodology that requires the player to absorb, do, connect/apply the content
• DGBL provides experiential learning experiences
• DGBL provides feedback and assessment

Purpose

1. Evaluate the effect of digital game based learning on the mathematics achievement of African American 9th grade students

Research Questions
1. What effect does DGBL have on the mathematics achievement of African American 9th grade students?
2. What effect does DGBL have on the mathematics achievement of female/male African American 9th Grade Students?
3. What effect does DGBL have on the disposition towards mathematics of African American 9th grade students?

Sample

• Population: Small urban high school in Washington DC - enrollment 900 students grades 9 - 12. Demographic 99.9% African American, .1% Hispanic/Latino
• Sample: Two 9th grade Algebra classes with 32 students each
• Classes may be inclusion classes with a combination of general education and special education students

Instrumentation

• Survey to measure motivation and disposition towards mathematics - ARCS-Bases Measure of Motivation
• Digital Game used is called Lure of the Labyrinth

Lure of the Labyrinth

• Players must find their missing pets
• Players are dropped into a strange world where they must prevent monsters from dominating and solve puzzles using their understanding of mathematics concepts
• Points and coins are earned as students move towards retrieving their pets
• http:/labyrinth.thinkport.org

Design

• Quasi-experimental
• Control group - direct instruction only
• Treatment group - DGBL with direct instruction
• Pre test to both groups
• Post test to both groups
• Teacher training prior to implementing the study
• Multiple Regression Analysis

References