Advancing adventure education using digital motion-sensing games

This study used the Xbox Kinect and Unity 3D game engine to develop two motion-sensing games in which the participants, in simulated scenarios, could experience activities that are unattainable in real life, become immersed in collaborative activities, and explore the value of adventure education. Adventure Education involves courses that emphasize first-hand learning experience in which participants cooperate in situated environments to achieve various life-learning aims. Using qualitative data to supplement questionnaires, system records and observations as well as interviews, results showed that digital games can substantially improve the learning effectiveness of adventure education themes just as traditional physical adventure education activities. Participants can advance their extrinsic behaviors, such as leadership and cooperation, and intrinsic motivations, such as reflection and confidence, through the games. With appropriate guidance and reflection, participants can develop their conceptual and social self. Motion-sensing games are convenient and effective tools for advancing physical adventure education activities.