Development of an Android-Based Educational Mathematics Game for Fourth-Grade Elementary School Students to Support Learning Interest and Motivation

Abstract

Mathematics is frequently perceived as a difficult and abstract subject by elementary school students, which may reduce their interest and motivation to learn. This issue is reflected in the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results, which show that Indonesian students’ mathematical proficiency remains relatively low. Previous studies have demonstrated that educational games can support mathematics learning. However, most studies primarily focus on feasibility, usability, or general effectiveness, while relatively limited attention has been given to the design of specific gameplay mechanics that support students’ learning interest and motivation, particularly in educational games tailored for fourth-grade elementary students. Therefore, this study aims to develop an Android-based educational

mathematics game entitled Petualangan Ksatria as an alternative learning medium for fourth- grade elementary school students. The game was designed to provide a more interactive and

engaging learning experience while supporting students’ interest and motivation in mathematics learning. This research applied the Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE instructional design model, consisting of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation stages. The application was developed using the Unity game engine and integrates mathematics materials based on the Grade IV Merdeka Curriculum into gameplay that adopts turn-based mechanics. Functional testing was conducted using Black Box Testing to verify whether all system features operated according to the intended specifications. In addition, User Acceptance Testing (UAT) was carried out involving 31 students and one fourth-grade teacher at SD Negeri Ngemplak 2. The results of Black Box Testing showed that all major functions of the application operated properly. Furthermore, the UAT results indicated a student acceptance score of 85%, categorized as Very Satisfactory, and a teacher evaluation score of 80%, categorized as Satisfactory. These findings indicate that Petualangan Ksatria is feasible as an alternative and engaging supplementary learning medium for mathematics learning at the elementary school level and has the potential to support students’ learning interest and motivation.