Development of a 2D game application for learning networks and security

In adeptly learning computer networks, realizing the procedural skills needed and creating a semantic link to an abstract concept is a challenge to all learners pursuing the study as well as instructors. The problem has been more recognized during the 2020 pandemic where most of the classes are conducted online. Teaching complicated concepts without providing visualization present in a laboratory environment can be seen as ineffective to some learners – leaving them with such abstract ideas. In some scenarios, providing a nice laboratory for newcomers can be costly to most educational institutions and to said probationers.
In this paper, the research aims to develop a 2D game application with the objective of promoting an interactive way of learning advanced networking concepts while disseminating awareness on network security threats. This is to familiarize learners with the risk of such threats and to learn ways to prevent these attacks. The game application was play tested with thirty-five (35) BSIT students from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila which shows promising feedback. It was concluded that most students find the gamification effective – delivering a more interactive way of learning networking concepts while keeping them aware of network threats.