Shapes and Patterns of Adaptive Game-Based Learning: An Experiment

It is often claimed that adaptive educational games keep the learner more engaged and maximize the learning taking place in the game. We explored these two claims by evaluating adaptive and non-adaptive forms of a pattern- and shape-recognition game for preschoolers. We used a Bayesian IRT model to make this game adapt in real time to the learner’s performance. Results indicate that adaptivity led to higher engagement, and we found some evidence of greater learning. We also note some important prerequisites for the success of adaptive games.