Enchanting e-learning through the use of interactive-feedbak loop in digital games

One of the driving forces behind developing digital games is the idea that digital games have the potential to provide engagement in learning by delivering timely and well structured feedback. This paper discusses how the interactive-feedback loop found in digital games can be used to effectively support the engagement and also the progress of learners. We investigate key motivational factors in providing feedback and then explore current approaches in the use of feedback. This study introduces the concept that learning in games should be an integral part of the game play rather than layering games on top of traditional learning. By way of illustration, we introduce the game based approach we are currently developing to support first year undergraduate computer science students learning introductory programming.