Enhancing the Understanding of Fundamental Concepts in Chemical Engineering Through Educational Adventure Games

Abstract

Understanding the fundamental concepts of chemical engineering often poses a challenge for students, primarily due to the complexity of the material and the necessity for critical thinking and in-depth analysis skills. This study aims to develop an educational adventure game as an innovative learning medium to improve students' comprehension of basic chemical engineering concepts. The game is designed using the waterfall development model, which comprises six stages: needs analysis, system design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. The game content integrates a case-method approach, where students actively assume the role of the main character tasked with solving various chemical engineering-related cases and challenges within an interactive virtual environment. Validation results demonstrate that the game is highly feasible as a learning medium, with a feasibility rating of 94% from subject matter experts and 90.5% from media experts. Trials conducted with small and large student groups revealed practicality levels of 97.07% and 96.8%, respectively, indicating that the game is both effective and well-received by students. The educational adventure game not only enhances learning motivation but also supports the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students. This research contributes to the advancement of innovative technology-based learning media for education in the digital era.