Exploring support mechanisms for learners at-risk through a coupled game environment

(2014).Exploring support mechanisms for learners at-­‐risk through a coupled game environment. Abstract. Dropping out of the schooling system is one of the prevailing problems placing youths at-risk. With this paper we propose possible support mechanisms for learners at–risk by analysing the characteristics of a coupled game. We provide a detailed description of an educational setting that is directed at supporting this target group and evaluate its individual design elements with regard to learners' attraction to the game environment, their motivation to deal with learning content and the knowledge gain. Study results suggest that the pattern Coupled Games as realized by way of SMS interventions provides chances to support the target group.