Rotorua Intermediate School students aged 10 to 13 were introduced to and used Kodu, free game development software from Microsoft. They used it for a full term and the lessons were integrated into their normal class routine.

While the students undertook their coursework, their teachers monitored a range of student responses including engagement, sustained involvement in learning activities, collaboration and peer teaching, and a positive emotional tone. Each student was also asked to complete a questionnaire.

“From the data collected ... it is apparent that in this situation the use of computer games was effective for engaging the students in learning”

“The teachers involved in the research were impressed with the levels of student focus and engagement while using the software"

The school’s principal Garry de Thierry said, “Rotorua Intermediate is dedicated to providing our students with leading teaching techniques and was excited to be part of this study. The staff and the students involved in this study found it valuable and learnt a lot from the lessons provided.”

More on the report at Scoop and download the PDF on Kodu in Rotorua.