The Development of Measurement of Empathy in Digital Games

Abstract

Digital games are often used in an educational environment. They are considered an effective learning tool, especially for keeping learners motivated. Gamification is used to make learning like a game by using elements of games, such as badges or scores. However, from a digital game studies perspective, gamification alone is not enough. Players are not attracted to games only by badges and scores. There are many efforts in design to keep players attracted. One of them is to make players empathize with games. This study focuses on empathy in digital games. It is believed that empathy not only attracts players but also affects players’ behavior. As technology evolves, it becomes easier for players to empathize with the game. From both educational media and digital game studies perspectives, it is important to look at empathy in digital games. Especially it is important to look at game effects and learning effectiveness regarding empathy. An instrument to measure empathy in digital games is urgently needed. In this study, an initial phase of development of a measurement of empathy in digital games is introduced.