Usability and Fun Evaluation of a Game Authoring Tool

Abstract: This paper discusses findings from tests of usability and fun in evaluating a game authoring tool named Gatelock. The tests were conducted with five children from different schools and each child was interviewed and observed previous to the use of the game authoring tool. For the usability test, the effectiveness, efficiency and children’s satisfaction in using Gatelock were discussed. Concerning the fun aspect of Gatelock, the children showed a great interest and enjoyed the game design activities in a non-threatening way. Results from these tests confronted us with some problems in Gatelock and guided us to redesign Gatelock in order to achieve the right environment for fun and enjoyable activities. We believe that the game authoring tool could offer better opportunities for children to explore new and exciting ways to engage and nurture their learning in the classroom