From Chance to Strategy: Advancing Educational Games about Vertebrates for Elementary Students

This study presents the development and improvement of an educational game aimed at enhancing elementary students’ understanding of vertebrate classification. The original version used a dichotomous key to help classify five groups of vertebrates: fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Initial implementation showed promising results, with average post-test scores exceeding 80% and high student satisfaction. However, limitations were found, such as excessive reliance on chance through dice-rolling, limited strategic options, and lengthy gameplay that reduced engagement, especially in the later stages. In response to these limitations, the game was redesigned to encourage visual observation, reasoning, and strategic decision-making. Players must now analyze animal traits, justify their choices, and select cards that match the game’s objectives. The development process involved collaboration with experts including university lecturers, science teachers, game designers, and students aged 10–13. Data were collected through classroom observation and informal interviews and used to refine the game across multiple iterations. The revised game promoted higher student engagement, critical thinking, and strategy through trial and error. Mistakes made during gameplay helped students remember animal traits more accurately and improve in later rounds. While the game supported advanced thinking skills, some areas still needed improvement. Experts suggested simplifying the scoring system, improving the clarity of animal images, and enhancing the game’s replayability. Some experts recommended immediate revision, while others believed students would adapt through repeated play and become more familiar with the game.