HiStorya: a Game Based Mobile Learning Application

Abstract

In mobile learning approach, game-based learning techniques have been popular to engage learning while still enjoying. This study sought to design and develop a mobile game application for Araling Panlipunan (AP) that could be used as a supplementary tool in learning the subject by Grade 8 students under the K-12 Curriculum of the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines. The researchers identified the topics, teaching methods and evaluation techniques used by the AP teachers and the game preferences of the AP students by conducting interviews and surveys. HiStorya, an interactive mobile game, was developed using the Android platform and the Digital Game-based Learning-Instructional Design Model. An evaluation survey of the application was also accomplished by the AP teachers and students.

HiStorya is relevant to the current state of technology today where smart devices are very popular. It is beneficial to the Grade 8 students taking up AP, the teachers of AP and the current education system of the Philippines. The students who used the application played and learned AP during or outside ofschool hours. The immersive, challenge and reward aspects of the game motivated the students to study and learn more about AP. The application was also utilized by AP teachers as a supplementary tool in teaching the subject. With the game statistics report generated by the system, HiStorya demonstrated it could help the teacher evaluate the subject proficiency level of his students. Moreover, HiStorya emphasized the significance of using games for student learning and introduced itself as another tool for teaching AP in the Philippines.