An Empirical Study of the Exponential Learning Factors in Digital Game Based Learning Model: Using an Extended Technology Acceptance Model (ETAM) Approach

The mechanism of digital game based learning model is mostly designed in a very similar mathematical structure of exponential learning model that has long been presented by educationalists. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to conduct an empirical study on the causality between acceptance attitude of learners and variables of the digital game based exponential learning model (DGBELM) proposed by Moon et al. (2011) Using structural equation modelling (SEM), this paper analyzed the effects of 'learning difficulty' factor expressed as constant k and 'learning motivation' factor expressed as omega in the DGBELM on the Flow, Perceived Ease of Use, Perceived Usefulness and Behavioral Intention of extended technology acceptance model (ETAM). The analysis result showed that k and omega factors in the DGBELM have strong explanatory power on digital game based learning model (DGBLM) usability of learners. This result shows the possibility of establishing DGBLM upon learners' characteristics through the adjustment of k and omega values. Accordingly, this study provides a typology of design for digital game based individualized learning model.