The Influence of Digital Gameplay on Learner Profiles in the Japanese University Context

Abstract

The researchers examined the relationship between informal digital gameplay and learner profiles in two Japanese private universities. Seventy-eight participants responded to 59 items on a digital questionnaire that consisted of four sections: 1) Learner Profiles, 2) Digital Game Usage, 3) Open-Responses, and 4) Demographics. The results of the study demonstrated that students positively identified with the learner profiles featured on the questionnaire (M = 3.80). The highest mean values were associated with the profiles of Digital Citizen (M = 4.30) and Knowledge Constructor (M = 4.15). It was discovered that participants engaged in digital gameplay most often with smartphones (M = 3.64) and game consoles (M = 2.79). Simulation (M = 2.81) and real-time strategy (M = 2.66) games were the most frequently played. The results of a Pearson Product Moment Correlation showed that there was no significant relationship between informal digital gameplay and learner profiles. Furthermore, self-identified gamers and non-gamers did not significantly differ on the Learner Profile Total Scale or subscales.