Northampton Electronic Collection of Theses and Research

Providing career guidance to adolescents through digital games: a case study

Dunwell, I., Lameras, P., de Freitas, S., Petridis, P., Hendrix, M., Arnab, S. and Star, K. (2014) Providing career guidance to adolescents through digital games: a case study. International Journal of Game-Based Learning (IJGBL). 4(4), pp. 58-70. 2155-6849.

Item Type: Article
Abstract: In an evolving global workplace, it is increasingly important for graduates and school-leavers to possess an understanding of the job market, their relevant skills, and career progression paths. However, both the marketplace and career paths are becoming increasingly dynamic, with employees more frequently moving between sectors and positions than was the case for previous generations. The concept of a “job for life” at a single organization is becoming less prevalent across sectors and cultures. In such a context, traditional approaches to career guidance, which often focused upon identifying a suitable occupation for adolescents at an early stage and establishing a route towards it, are being challenged with the need to communicate the value of transferrable skills and non-linear progression paths. This article explores the role digital games might play in allowing learners to develop these skills as part of a wider careers guidance programme. Through a case study of the “MeTycoon” serious game, the potential reach of such games is discussed, with 38,097 visits to the game's website, and 408,247 views of embedded educational videos. An online survey of players (n=97) gives some insight into their opinions of the game's impact and appeal, with positive comments regarding the design of the game and its emphasis on creating an enjoyable gaming experience whilst providing educational content.
Uncontrolled Keywords: Northampton
Subjects: L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1029.G3 Educational games
L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1027.5 Educational counseling
L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1028.43 Computers in education. Web-based instruction. Educational technology
Creators: Dunwell, Ian, Lameras, Petros, de Freitas, Sara, Petridis, Panos, Hendrix, Maurice, Arnab, Sylvester and Star, Kam
Publisher: IGI Global
Northamptonshire and East Midlands: Education, Training and Skills
ICT
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes: Faculties > Faculty of Arts, Science & Technology > Computing
Date: 2014
Date Type: Publication
Page Range: pp. 58-70
Journal or Publication Title: International Journal of Game-Based Learning (IJGBL)
Volume: 4
Number: 4
Language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4018/ijgbl.2014100104
ISSN: 2155-6849
Status: Published / Disseminated
Refereed: Yes
URI: http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/7458

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