Journal of Research in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education

Current attitudes on digital interactive fiction and text adventure games within learning contexts: A systematic literature review

Tyler B Wright 1 * ,
Jennifer L Weible 1
1 Central Michigan University* Corresponding Author
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Journal of Research in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, Volume 7, Issue 1, January 2024, pp. 23-51
OPEN ACCESS VIEWS: 1132 DOWNLOADS: 889 Publication date: 27 Feb 2024
ABSTRACT
Interactive fiction (IF) is a type of textual work that allows an exchange between the user and computer, providing some meaningful human input to progress the story. There is substantial evidence to suggest that text adventure game development and readership yields rich learning potential across disciplines, however exhaustive research into this phenomenon is sorely lacking at present.  This systematic literature review investigates 10 years of scholarly literature (2012-2022) referencing “interactive fiction” and “text adventure” within educational or learning contexts.  A systematic review protocol containing the following steps was adopted: a) database search with parameters; b) full-text article screening; c) data extraction; and d) thematic analysis.  Seven unique themes emerged from a thematic analysis of 63 high-quality scholarly articles: a) the immersive potential of IF; b) IF as a creative writing medium; c) improving reading literacy through IF; d) history instruction facilitated through IF; e) learning technology through IF; f) introducing complex topics and issues through IF; and g) building a community around IF.  Results of this study suggest that reading and writing in the nonlinear tradition results in rich, multidisciplinary learning outcomes.  Educators across disciplines are encouraged to consider ways in which they might integrate IF into their curricula to take advantage of the unique and broad benefits of practice.
KEYWORDS
interactive fiction, text adventures, digital storytelling, game development, multidisciplinary learning
CITATION (APA)
Wright, T. B., & Weible, J. L. (2024). Current attitudes on digital interactive fiction and text adventure games within learning contexts: A systematic literature review. Journal of Research in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, 7(1), 23-51. https://doi.org/10.31756/jrsmte.713
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