Bugtopia: Game-Based Learning for Venomous Insect Symptom Recognition

Abstract

This paper presents Bugtopia, a game-based learning prototype developed to support recognition of symptoms associated with venomous insects and related arthropods. The study aimed to compare the game-based approach with a text-based learning method in terms of immediate learning, retention, and user experience. A between-group experiment with 30 participants employed pre-test, immediate post-test, and delayed post-test measures. Learning outcomes were analyzed using both all-or-nothing and partial-credit scoring. Results showed that both methods improved performance from pre-test to immediate post-test, although the text-based method yielded larger immediate gains. In contrast, delayed post-test results showed stronger retention for the game-based method, which maintained more stable performance over two weeks and achieved higher delayed scores. Subjective results further showed positive user experience for Bugtopia and more favorable ratings for the game-based method on understanding, memory support, enjoyment, and future reuse. Overall, the findings suggest that Bugtopia is a promising complementary learning tool, particularly for promoting retention and engagement.