Development of a Genially-Based Digital Snakes and Ladders Game to Enhance Reading Comprehension among Phase C Learners

Sari Rahayu; Lina Novita; Elly Sukmanasa

doi:10.35445/alishlah.v18i1.7677

Development of a Genially-Based Digital Snakes and Ladders Game to Enhance Reading Comprehension among Phase C Learners

Sari Rahayu, Lina Novita, Elly Sukmanasa

Abstract

Reading comprehension remains a major challenge in Indonesian elementary education, requiring innovative and engaging learning media that integrate digital technology and gamification. This study addresses the need for interactive digital learning tools by developing a Genially-based digital Snakes and Ladders game to support reading comprehension among Phase C students. This research employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE model. The effectiveness of the developed media was examined through a pre-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design involving 31 Phase C students. Data were collected using reading comprehension tests, expert validation sheets, and student response questionnaires. Data analysis included paired sample t-test and N-Gain to measure learning improvement. The results showed that the digital Snakes and Ladders game was feasible and appropriate based on expert validation. Students responded positively, indicating increased motivation and engagement in reading activities. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between pretest and posttest scores (p < 0.05), with an N-Gain value of 0.71, categorized as high. This indicates a substantial improvement in students’ reading comprehension after using the Genially-based game. The findings demonstrate that integrating interactive storytelling and game-based digital media can effectively enhance reading comprehension among elementary students. The Genially-based digital Snakes and Ladders game provides an engaging learning environment that supports active participation and deeper understanding of reading texts. This media has strong potential to be adapted for other learning materials and broader educational contexts.

Keywords

reading comprehension; digital snakes and ladders; genially; ADDIE model; learning effectiveness

References

Adipat, S., Laksana, K., Busayanon, K., Ausawasowan, A., & Adipat, B. (2021). Engaging students in the learning process with game-based learning: The fundamental concepts. International Journal of Technology in Education, 4(3), 542–552. https://doi.org/10.46328/ijte.169

Alam, S. (2023, December 18). Hasil PISA 2022, refleksi mutu pendidikan nasional 2023. Media Indonesia. https://mediaindonesia.com/opini/638003/hasil-pisa-2022-refleksi-mutu-pendidikan-nasional-2023

Anane, C. (2024). Impact of a game-based tool on student engagement in a foreign language course: A three-term analysis. Frontiers in Education, 9, 1430729. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2024.1430729

Angelelli, C. V., Ribeiro, G. M. D. C., Severino, M. R., Johnstone, E., Borzenkova, G., & Da Silva, D. C. O. (2023). Developing critical thinking skills through gamification. Thinking Skills and Creativity, 49, 101354. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tsc.2023.101354

Antonopoulou, H., Halkiopoulos, C., Gkintoni, E., & Katsimpelis, A. (2022). Application of gamification tools for identification of neurocognitive and social function in distance learning education. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 21(5), 367–400. https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.21.5.19

Arum, W. S. A., Khalilah, H. N., Marini, A., Yarmi, G., Safitri, D., & Dewiyani, L. (2025). Managing students’ learning interest in civics learning through a Genially-based interactive multimedia. Journal of Education and Learning (EduLearn), 19(2), 658–664. https://doi.org/10.11591/edulearn.v19i2.21264

Bahari, A., Alavinia, P., & Mohammadi, M. (2014). The effects of computer-assisted interactive reading model on higher-level and lower-level text processing skills and cognitive load. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 30(5), 2081–2102. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcal.13005

Bali, C., & Zsido, A. N. (2024). Optimizing learning outcomes of educational applications enhanced with multimedia and interactive features: A review. In S. Papadakis & M. Kalogiannakis (Eds.), Education, development and intervention (Vol. 23, pp. 167–184). Springer Nature Switzerland. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-60713-4_11

Banditvilai, C. (2016). Enhancing students’ language skills through blended learning. Electronic Journal of e-Learning, 14(3). https://academic-publishing.org/index.php/ejel/article/view/1757

Barach, P. (2021). Designing and integrating purposeful learning in gameplay: What will it take to ensure sustainable learning and effectiveness outcomes? Educational Technology Research and Development, 69(3), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-020-09908-9

Chen, J., Wang, M., Kirschner, P. A., & Tsai, C.-C. (2018). The role of collaboration, computer use, learning environments, and supporting strategies in CSCL: A meta-analysis. Review of Educational Research, 88(6), 799–843. https://doi.org/10.3102/0034654318791582

Dick, W., Carey, L., & Carey, J. O. (2015). Systematic design of instruction (8th ed.). Pearson.

Dzulfikar, M. I., & Wati, T. L. (2024). Digital learning media “Apliandro Energi IV.” Jurnal Pendidikan Sains (UPS), 12(1), 45–53. https://doi.org/10.21070/ups.4185

Gan, B., Menkhoff, T., & Smith, R. (2015). Enhancing students’ learning process through interactive digital media: New opportunities for collaborative learning. Computers in Human Behavior, 51, 652–663. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2014.12.048

Hasanah Lubis, L., Febriani, B., Fitra Yana, R., Azhar, A., & Darajat, M. (2023). The use of learning media and its effect on improving the quality of student learning outcomes. International Journal of Education, Social Studies, and Management (IJESSM), 3(2), 7–14. https://doi.org/10.52121/ijessm.v3i2.148

Heidari, M., & Shahbazi, S. (2016). Effect of training problem-solving skill on decision-making and critical thinking of personnel at medical emergencies. International Journal of Critical Illness and Injury Science, 6(4), 182–187. https://doi.org/10.4103/2229-5151.195445

Hung, N.-T., & Yen, K.-L. (2022). Towards sustainable internationalization of higher education: Innovative marketing strategies for international student recruitment. Sustainability, 14(14), 8522. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14148522

Husnadi, M., Budiawanti, S., & Ekawati, E. Y. (2024). Feasibility analysis of subject specific pedagogy physics learning module based on project-based learning integrated with Merdeka curriculum on alternative energy material. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 10(2), 449–458. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i2.3774

Ke, F., Xie, K., & Xie, Y. (2016). Game-based learning engagement: A theory- and data-driven exploration. British Journal of Educational Technology, 47(6), 1183–1201. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.12314

Le, H. V., & Nguyen, L. Q. (2024). Promoting L2 learners’ critical thinking skills: The role of social constructivism in reading class. Frontiers in Education, 9, 1241973. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2024.1241973

Leaning, M. (2015). A study of the use of games and gamification to enhance student engagement, experience and achievement on a theory-based course of an undergraduate media degree. Journal of Media Practice, 16(2), 155–170. https://doi.org/10.1080/14682753.2015.1041807

Lin, H.-C., Hwang, G.-J., Chang, S.-C., & Hsu, Y.-D. (2021). Facilitating critical thinking in decision making-based professional training: An online interactive peer-review approach in a flipped learning context. Computers & Education, 173, 104266. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2021.104266

Makinde, S. O., Ajani, Y. A., & Abdulrahman, M. R. (2024). Smart learning as transformative impact of technology: A paradigm for accomplishing sustainable development goals (SDGs) in education. Indonesian Journal of Educational Research and Technology, 4(3), 274–289. https://doi.org/10.17509/ijert.v4i3.66097

Mansur, M., Nurwahidin, M., & Herpratiwi, H. (2024). Implementation of digital-based learning media on thematic material on students’ scientific abilities. Jurnal Teknologi Pendidikan: Jurnal Penelitian dan Pengembangan Pembelajaran, 9(2), 136–144. https://doi.org/10.33394/jtp.v9i2.7528

Morrison, G. R., Ross, S. J., Morrison, J. R., & Kalman, H. K. (2019). Designing effective instruction (8th ed.). Wiley.

Munoz-Tobar, H., Baldiris, S., & Fabregat, R. (2017). Augmented reality game-based learning: Enriching students’ experience during reading comprehension activities. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 55(4), 568–590. https://doi.org/10.1177/0735633116689789

Musthafa, B. (2014). Literasi dini dan literasi remaja: Teori, konsep, dan praktik. Crest.

Mutia, L., Gimin, G., & Mahdum, M. (2020). Development of blog-based audio visual learning media to improve student learning interests in money and banking topic. Journal of Educational Sciences, 4(2), 436–448. https://doi.org/10.31258/jes.4.2.p.436-448

Nguyen, T. N., Phan Thanh Tuan, & Nguyen Thi Ha Phuong. (2024). Engaging students in the learning process with game-based learning. International Journal of English Language Studies, 6(1), 54–60. https://doi.org/10.32996/ijels.2024.6.1.5

Novita, L., Sukmanasa, E., Suhardi, E., & Suhendra, S. (2023). Optimizing and strengthening the productivity of lecturer’s scientific work. International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE), 12(3), 1336–1344. https://doi.org/10.11591/ijere.v12i3.25101

Novita, L., & Sundari, F. S. (2020). Peningkatan hasil belajar siswa menggunakan media game ular tangga digital. Jurnal Basicedu, 4(3), 716–724. https://doi.org/10.31004/basicedu.v4i3.428

Novita, L., Sundari, F. S., & Rabani, K. R. (2020). Penerapan media game ular tangga digital untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar tematik. Jurnal Pemikiran dan Pengembangan Sekolah Dasar (JP2SD), 8(2), 126–137. https://doi.org/10.22219/jp2sd.v8i2.12329

Novita, L., Talitha, S., Rohimah, R., Sundari, F. S., & Purnamasari, R. (2024). Independent curriculum management through developing teaching modules on style materials. AL-ISHLAH: Jurnal Pendidikan, 16(2), 1275–1288. https://doi.org/10.35445/alishlah.v16i2.4824

Rajendran, M., Ray, M., Ilangovan, A., Xavier, Y. C. S., & Parthasarathy, G. (2024). Game-based learning and its impact on students’ motivation and academic performance. Multidisciplinary Reviews, 8(3), 2025074. https://doi.org/10.31893/multirev.2025074

Rodríguez Sua, M. (2021). Cognitive strategies for developing students’ reading comprehension skills using short stories. Revista de Estudios y Experiencias en Educación, 20(44), 233–253. https://doi.org/10.21703/0718-5162.v20.n43.2021.014

Romualdi, K. B., Sudrajat, A., & Aman, A. (2023). Development of Genially interactive multimedia on materials for the national movement organization for middle school students. AL-ISHLAH: Jurnal Pendidikan, 15(2), 1166–1180. https://doi.org/10.35445/alishlah.v15i2.3139

Rusmining, R., Yuwaningsih, D. A., & Cahdriyana, R. A. (2024). Pelatihan pembuatan media pembelajaran dengan platform Genially sebagai upaya peningkatan keterampilan mengajar guru. Surya Abdimas, 8(2), 284–290. https://doi.org/10.37729/abdimas.v8i2.4312

Siswanti, D. N., Daud, M., & Anugrah, D. Y. (2022). Efektivitas pembelajaran kooperatif jigsaw dalam meningkatkan kecerdasan linguistik siswa. Jurnal Psikologi TALENTA, 8(1), 67–74. https://doi.org/10.26858/talenta.v8i1.45730

Smiderle, R., Rigo, S. J., Marques, L. B., Peçanha De Miranda Coelho, J. A., & Jaques, P. A. (2020). The impact of gamification on students’ learning, engagement and behavior based on their personality traits. Smart Learning Environments, 7(1), 3. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-019-0098-x

Studi Internasional PIRLS. (2022, July 16). Pusat Asesmen Pendidikan. https://pusmendik.kemdikbud.go.id/produk/kategori-asesmen-terstandar/page-studi-internasional-pirls

Wagino, W., Maksum, H., Purwanto, W., Simatupang, W., Lapisa, R., & Indrawan, E. (2024). Enhancing learning outcomes and student engagement: Integrating e-learning innovations into problem-based higher education. International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM), 18(10), 106–124. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.v18i10.47649

Watts, S. A. (2007). Evaluative feedback: Perspectives on media effects. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 12(2), 384–411. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1083-6101.2007.00330.x

Wynn, D. C., & Maier, A. M. (2022). Feedback systems in the design and development process. Research in Engineering Design, 33(3), 273–306. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00163-022-00386-z

DOI: https://doi.org/10.35445/alishlah.v18i1.7677