Study Details

Title:

Playful Puzzle Mechanics Game Modifications (Cash-Only Study)

Researcher:

Craig Anderson   

Contact:

"Craig Anderson" <cganders@umn.edu>

Term:

Fall 2024

Description:

This research study aims to better understand how people learn the basic mechanics of a puzzle-based video game. Ultimately, we hope that we can use the knowledge we gain to develop and provide practical resources for game developers, teachers, and players to support productive problem solving and more engaging puzzle video games. In this study, we will ask you to schedule three 1.25 hour game play sessions with yourself and a researcher from our team over the course of 2 weeks. Zoom sessions will be video recorded to make possible detailed analyses of players’ problem-solving process. As you play the game, each action you take in the game, such as clicking left or right to move the game character, will be saved in a “log file” and shared with our research team. We will be using these log files to understand how people solve problems in video games. You will also be asked to fill out a short survey after the first and last sessions. Eligibility Criteria: ● Aged 18+ years old ● You are fluent or could respond thoughtfully to open-ended questions in English Participants will be given a $56.25 Tango debit card and get to keep the game!

Delivery Format:

Live (in-person or remote)

Maximum number of sessions:

3

Maximum Time Commitment:

225 minutes

Maximum REP Point Award:

0

Cash Award:

$56

Requirements:

• 18 and over
• Other