Digital game design on the subject of identities and expansions

Abstract

This study aimed to design a digital game used in the teaching of identities and expansions and provide modelling by students. This game was designed according to the eighth-grade math curriculum. Unity3d game engine was used in designing the game. The software required to run the game was written by researchers using C# and java script. At the stage of designing, initially, the game was introduced to five mathematics teachers and various arrangements were made according to their opinions. Then, the game was evaluated and given the final form by two instructors who were experts in the field of mathematics education. In general, problems was designed that can be solved by dividing the rectangle given by 2 dimensional and given one edge like (ax + b) into the sub rectangles such as x^2, 2x and 1 and by writing the final result of how many sub-rectangles formed the whole rectangle. The teachers who participated in the evaluation of the game stated that the game was suitable for education and the students would gain interest in the game during the course. Teachers have criticised the game only on visual matters. For education to be more effective, the number of such games and materials should be increased. For design of more effective and more interesting games, we must collaborate with the experts in the field of fine arts.

Keywords: digital game; game; expansions; mathematics education