Research Article
Prime Slaughter: Playful Prime Numbers
@INPROCEEDINGS{10.1007/978-3-642-33329-3_16, author={Andrea Valente and Emanuela Marchetti}, title={Prime Slaughter: Playful Prime Numbers}, proceedings={Arts and Technology. Second International Conference, ArtsIT 2011, Esbjerg, Denmark, December 10-11, 2011, Revised Selected Papers}, proceedings_a={ARTSIT}, year={2012}, month={10}, keywords={Non-formal learning computer games factorization play}, doi={10.1007/978-3-642-33329-3_16} }- Andrea Valente
Emanuela Marchetti
Year: 2012
Prime Slaughter: Playful Prime Numbers
ARTSIT
Springer
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-33329-3_16
Abstract
Starting from the difficulty of creating playful representation of domain-specific abstract concepts, this study discusses the design of Prime Slaughter, a computer game aimed at facilitating individual sense-making of abstract mathematical concepts. Specifically the game proposes a transposition of primality and factorization into playful interactions, addressed to primary and early secondary school children. Taking into account individual needs expressed by children regarding play, during a participatory design processes aimed at enhancing learning in museums, Prime Slaughter allows for multiple forms of play and their integration. A simple working prototype has already been developed; it will be tested and re-designed through participatory workshops, involving a group of children in our target group.