A Board Game Approach to Climate Change Education and Advocacy

Abstract

This research discusses “EcoQuest,” a board game developed to address the urgent issue of climate change through gamification. EcoQuest aims to bridge the perception gap surrounding climate change by immersing players in its complexities while promoting awareness, empathy, and action-oriented mindsets. The study outlines the game’s components, gameplay mechanics, and significance, emphasizing its potential as an educational tool for diverse audiences. The research methodology incorporates qualitative methods to assess the game’s effectiveness in conveying climate change concepts and inspiring tangible actions. Data collection includes pre- and post-gameplay questionnaires, supplemented by ethnographic observations, providing insights into players’ understanding, engagement, and motivations. The study hypothesizes that EcoQuest can serve as a platform for introducing climate change terminology and concepts, utilizing the power of board games to communicate serious issues effectively. Through this approach, the research aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on climate change education and advocacy, offering a creative and interactive solution to a global challenge. Additionally, preliminary research findings suggest that EcoQuest enhances players’ understanding of climate change concepts and motivates them to take action, highlighting the game’s potential to drive meaningful change through immersive gameplay experiences.

Presenters

Jubair Islam
Student, Master of Science, Illinois State University, Illinois, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

2025 Special Focus—Sustainable Development for a Dynamic Planet: Lessons, Priorities, and Solutions

KEYWORDS

Climate change, Board game, Gamification, Education, Perception gap, Awareness