Two researchers from the University of North Texas Mayborn School of Journalism in Denton recruited 72 participants to complete individual in-person sessions with a web-based educational game about health insurance. To design the game, the researchers integrated “entry-level” health insurance information into various interactive scenarios.
Researchers also had participants complete a survey about health insurance before and after playing the online game. Participants reported a greater understanding of how to use health insurance and provided more correct definitions for health insurance terms after playing the game.
“A game is a practical solution to a difficult health issue,” the study authors concluded. “The game can be played anywhere, including on a mobile device, is interactive and will thus engage an apathetic audience, and is cost-efficient in its execution.”
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