Factors Influencing the Acquisition of Soft Skills in a Collaborative Learning Environment Supported by Game-Based Application

Abstract

There is a growing search for methodologies and tools that foster student motivation and learning. This experimental study aims to examine students’ acceptance and attitude towards the use of game-based applications, as well as analyze how game-based learning impacts the acquisition and development of basic competences. To this end, online questionnaire responses from 135 undergraduate computer science students were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results indicate that students perceive these tools as useful and easy to use, thus exerting a positive influence on learning motivation and behavior change towards the implementation of game-based learning. Furthermore, the crucial role of game-based learning strategies in the development of formative collaborative learning is emphasized, as well as their positive influence on the acquisition of essential soft skills for the comprehensive training of computer science students. The conclusions underscore the importance of considering the GBL approach as a valuable educational strategy to motivate and enhance learning and develop fundamental skills in students.

Keywords

• Game-based learning apps
• competences
• soft skills
• motivation learning
• behavior change
• collaborative learning