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Exploring Player Archetypes in a Minecraft-Based Learning Environment

delete2026-03-01
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PRE
AI
A
Andres Felipe Zambrano *
W
Wei, Zhanlan
O
Ocumpaugh, Jaclyn
B
Barany, Amanda
R
Ryan S. Baker
L
Liu, Xiner
Z
Zhou, Yiqiu
L
Luc Paquette
J
Jeffrey Ginger
DOI:10.17083/yj7g5p07delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Games are recognized as valuable tools for learning and interest development. However, the association between behavioral player archetypes and these important outcomes is still underexplored. This study explores the relationship between learning, interest development, and player archetypes (ROAMERS, EXPLORERS, and SCIENTISTS) identified within the WHIMC project, a game-based learning environment where students engage with scientifically accurate hypothetical astronomy scenarios in Minecraft. Grounded in human-computer interaction and player typologies frameworks, we analyze data from 57 participants across four summer camps using Ordered Network Analysis (ONA) and k-means clustering to identify player archetypes emerging from student actions. We then examine how these archetypes relate to learning outcomes and motivational factors. Statistical tests reveal significant differences in in-game actions across archetypes and correlations between player behaviors and learning outcomes. These findings contribute to the design of serious educational games by increasing understanding of how to optimize experiences and enhance science engagement for learners with differing playing styles.
Keywords:
Student motivation
Player archetypes
Player typologies
Educational games
Minecraft-based learning
Science interest

Journal

I
International Journal of Serious Games
IF:
2.2
Papers:
27
Citations:
469

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University of Houston
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University of Houston System
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University of Pennsylvania
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adelaide university
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