Impacts of Using a 3D Role-Playing Educational Game on Student Behavioural, Emotional, and Cognitive Engagement in Large-Size Photography Class

To tackle the challenge of low student engagement in large-size photography class in higher education, this study designed, developed and applied a photography simulation educational game and tested its effectiveness in improve student engagement. This study used a quasi-experimental method to collect data from observations of student behavior, questionnaire surveys and interviews on emotional engagement, and their photography scores. Participants were split into an experimental group and a control group for eight weeks period. Student engagement was measured and compared behaviorally, affectively, and cognitively. The results showed that the behavioral participation of the experimental group was higher than that of the control group. The experimental group also showed significantly higher satisfaction with the course. In addition, the game effectively enhanced students’ photography skills, creativity ability, expression ability and overall expressiveness. Nevertheless, there are some restrictions on the improvement of photography aesthetics and thematic relevance. Finally, the researchers offered recommendations for future directions in photography instruction and educational game design.