Wang Zhang

Date of Award

8-2014

Type

Thesis

Major

Computer Science - Applied Computing Track

Degree Type

Master of Science in Applied Computer Science

Department

TSYS School of Computer Science

First Advisor

Dr. Rania Hodhod

Second Advisor

Dr. Shamim Khan

Third Advisor

Dr. Rodrigo Obando

Abstract

Educational games have been proven to be effective in developing problem solving skills in well-defined domain, such as Math and Physics. In this thesis, an educational game called Matrix was developed to foster problem solving skills in the domain of linear algebra, particularly solving a system of linear equations. Matrix is an adaptive educational game that uses intelligent tutoring modules to guide the student's learning process and provide feedback based on the student's performance. These modules are domain module, student module, pedagogical module and presentation module. The domain module contains all the concepts the student needs to learn and an automated solver for linear equations that adopts the rules of Gaussian Elimination. The student module records the student's performance and provides the pedagogical module with the required information about the student's current skills. The pedagogical module uses the automated solver to assess the student's performance on the designated task and a neuro-fuzzy system to decide on the next proper game level for the student. Matrix has been evaluated by 13 students from the Columbus State University. The results show that Matrix was well perceived by the students and that they were able to transfer the skills learned in the game to real world problems on systems of linear equations.

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