Beetle Breeders

Research shows that educational games can help students build content knowledge and skills, but it can be difficult for teachers to effectively integrate game-based learning into their existing curriculum. UbiqGames are browser-based, casual games that relate directly to the curriculum but can be played outside of class time. Designed for mobile devices, the games can be accessed anywhere, anytime and discussed or analyzed during class. Beetle Breeders, focused on the topic of genetics, is one of four games designed to teach intro biology concepts and developed as part of a research study looking at the implementation and effects of UbiqGames. This paper will examine the student experience of the Beetle Breeders implementation, including how players integrated the game into their lives both in and out of school, as well as the appeal and effectiveness from a student’s point of view.