Promoting science education via online gaming

Recognizing the growing need for increased science education in the United States, Tabula Digita and Monsanto partnered to develop a science-centric online video game, League of Scientists. League of Scientists was designed to help students “get excited about science” while teaching basic academic concepts. Before launching the game, Tabula Digita wanted to understand how effectively League of Scientists excited kids, and taught key science concepts.  

Usability testing and contextual exploration 

Karr Lucar Consultants and Tabula Digita provided 3rd - 5th grade students, moms, and teachers with access to League of Scientists. Participants played the game at home and also during focus groups. Using focus groups and phone interviews, perspectives were gathered on the meaning of science in the United States, the overall game experience, tools within the game, the competitive online gaming context, and the understanding of structural and key science concepts. 

Optimizing game play while enhancing science learning 

Kids enjoy science because it is a lens through which they see the world around them. It answers intriguing questions, rewarding curiosity with satisfyingly concrete answers. This insight led to our recommendation that the game’s learning component be as overtly present as the “fun.” It is not only expected and desired, but gives the game integrity, maturity, and authenticity. We also acknowledged the needs differential between 3rd and 5th graders and recommended usability improvements focused on creating support and reinforcement for 3rd graders while maintaining the challenge and excitement for 5th graders. League of Scientists launched midyear 2010.