Engaging Primary School Children in Neuroscience through Game-Based Learning

Abstract

Neurocognitive health depends on our daily lifestyle choices and is important to embed this concept in early childhood education. To address this need, we created NexusMentis, a fun and interactive board game, aimed at teaching pre-teens basic neuroscience concepts. In this pilot study, we evaluated the efficacy of game-based learning (GBL) through NexusMentis in promoting active learning and enjoyment among pre-teens. The game was deployed in five primary schools in Dublin, Ireland, with our target population being children aged 10 to 12 years old. The efficacy of NexusMentis in teaching neuroscience and promoting health was evaluated by comparing performance scores of pre- and post-game questionnaires and considering the qualitative feedback from students and teachers. Students showed significant improvement in their postgame assessment, with both teachers and students enjoying NexusMentis. This pilot study demonstrates GBL can be used to teach basic neuroscience concepts to pre-teen students, indicating its potential as a learning tool for early education. NexusMentis can be used to complement the standard lectures, reinforcing the concepts and associating the learning experience with fun and team playing.