Abstract:

This paper is a response to observed difficulties of educators in searching through a bounty of emerging applications that could possibly enhance learning process with computer games. Based on the analysis of existing computer games systematisations a new approach is proposed.

The aims of a new systematisations are to:
• provide educators, teachers, parents or even gamers themselves with a tool facilitating decision-making process while choosing games in a specific area and aims,
• recognise to what extent the computer game falls into type or types,
• provide the audience with a graphic representation (as a spider web diagram) characterising computer games.

The systematisation assumes that a game can fall into several main categories. It is possible not only to answer a question if the game fits the category but also to what extent. An idea, criteria and proposed method are explained. Moreover the application of the systematisations is exemplified, proving that even when taking into consideration several variables as far as requirements of an educator are concerned, it is possible to choose a game that is best-fit under the given circumstances. An example of comparing different computer games and choosing the game better fitted into specific criteria is presented in this paper. Possible opportunities for development of proposed method are pointed out.

Keywords:

Taxonomy, systematisation, facilitating decision-making process, educational, serious games.