Lotfi Derbali

Prediction of Players Motivational States Using Electrophysiological Measures during Serious Game Play

This study investigated players’ motivation during serious game play. It is based on a theoretical model of motivation. Statistical analysis showed a significant increase of motivation during the game. This study tried to dissect predictors of Players’ Motivational States. Multiple linear regression showed statistical significance of specific electrophysiological data. The theta wave in the frontal regions and motivation were positively correlated. High-beta wave in the left-center region was also a significant predictor for high level of motivation. Skin conductance was also a significant predictor for motivation. However, we could not find a significant correlation between players’ motivation and their heart rate responses.

Motivational Strategies to Support Engagement of Learners in Serious Games

The use of Video Games as learning tool is becoming increasingly widespread. Indeed, these games are well known as educational games or serious games. They mainly aim at providing to the learner an interactive, motivational and educational environment at the same time. In order to better study the necessary characteristics for the development of an effective serious game (both motivational and educational), we evaluated the physiological responses of participants during their interaction with our serious game, called HeapMotiv. We essentially measured a physiological index of engagement through an EEG wifi headset and studied the evolution of this index with the different missions and motivational strategies of HeapMotiv. Focusing on the gaming aspects, the analysis of this engagement index behavior showed the significant impact of motivational strategies on skills acquisition and motivational experience.