Key factors and network model for location‐based cultural mobile game design

Abstract The use of smart devices as media for digital learning constitutes a new‐generation digital learning paradigm. Therefore, context‐aware game‐based learning has attracted considerable attention. Location‐based games have not only positive effects on learning but also pronounced effects on culture and history. Accordingly, focusing on railway cultural heritages, we attempted to assess interdependent relationships between key factors crucial for the design of a location‐based mobile game for cultural heritages. We adopted the analytic network process (ANP) for our assessment. We initially performed a literature review to generalize relevant criteria and elements and developed a questionnaire based on the fuzzy delphi method (FDM); which lead to the selection of key factors, namely 3 criteria and 15 elements. We also applied an online ANP‐based questionnaire; on the basis of the experts' opinions, we established a network model and determined the priority order of the key factors. The results revealed that experts considered “culture learning” to be of the highest importance, with the most important three elements being “prior knowledge,” “challenge levels,” and “cultural narrative.” Moreover, culture learning exhibited a strong interaction with content design. In addition, each element had a considerable influence on the remaining elements that could provide references for the construction of location‐based cultural mobile games in the future. Practitioner Notes What is already known about this topic Context‐aware game‐based learning, such as instructional pervasive games, improves quality of learning. Location‐based games help learners achieve better learning outcomes, learning potential, and learning interest. Most studies on location‐based, cultural exploration games mainly emphasize their design and development of the game scheme. However, the key factors that make a success of the game are overlooked. What this paper adds We identified key factors (3 criteria; 15 elements) and developed a network model based on analytic network process (ANP) for location‐based cultural mobile game design. The priority order of key factors for designing a location‐based railway cultural game is derived. The strengths, relationships, and influences among identified key factors were analyzed. Implications for practice and/or policy The results of this study provide validated guidelines for further development of effective location‐based cultural exploration games. Our study findings enable designers to prioritize or demote reference factors for construction, according to relative strengths and weaknesses of design factors.