Early Childhood Learning
Although there are numerous studies on digital educational games, few studies analyse their significant features, including the disadvantages and advantages of GBL at the preschool level. Incorporating games into learning spaces impacts many domains; hence, research needs to focus more on GBL's benefits. Behnamnia et al. (2023) maintain that GBL in early learning has several benefits because games promote suitable and exciting learning environments. However, these claims are firmly based on current theory and research but have little empirical support. In order to cover this gap where empirical support is lacking, this study 'opens the door' by exploring early childhood learners' experiences to determine what environment matches their developmental level. Castillo (2019), cited in Behnamnia et al. (2023), affirms that “Digital game-based learning (DGBL) and related educational technologies are essential elements in the education system”. Moreover, recent studies by (Susilawati and Handoyo (2022) indicate that children's access to technologies such as tablets and smartphones is ever-increasing.
Early childhood education (ECE) learners who are in the initial phases of their educational journey, usually between the ages of three and eight, are developing foundational skills in various subjects, including mathematics. Regarding development, the early years of education (birth to age 8) is a crucial period of rapid cognitive and physical development involving over one million new neural connections formed every second. According to the Center for Developing Children (Manas 2020), this foundational stage of children's growth stimulates the development of learning processes, relationship-building, and school readiness.
Additionally, it is essential to become knowledgeable about the characteristics of early childhood education (ECE) learners to promote quality pedagogical practice in line with the developmental needs of young children to benefit from quality teaching-learning processes. Early childhood learners (0-8 years) are at the critical stage of developing cognitive skills which accelerate learning through play activities, which practitioners should encourage because play fosters attention, critical thinking, memory, and problem-solving abilities.
Research emphasises that ECE learners thrive through play (Vygotsky, 1978) and advocates the creation of opportunities for hands-on activities like games to enhance the development of social and emotional skills and adapt to different learning styles while providing frequent breaks during movement opportunities. In other words, deep knowledge of early childhood learners will guide teachers in selecting relevant game-based learning content to exploit young learners' potential.
Early Childhood Education
Adipat et al. (2021) define game-based learning (GBL) as a teaching strategy that integrates gameplay with subject content, which aids in the retention and application of knowledge and enhances learning outcomes. Game-based learning for young children (often under parental guidance) through digital devices is increasingly becoming popular for various reasons. The ease of access to digital technologies widens children's play landscapes; however, we should be wary of the quality of digital experiences because they strongly influence learning outcomes. Further, evidence on the effects of digital technologies on children's early development and well-being is inconclusive (OECD, 2023). This study, therefore, cautions families and educators to be alert when integrating digital technologies into early childhood education, as this period in a child's life is crucial because the focus is on holistic child development, which will influence young learners' future thinking, actions, and achievements. In other words, the skills and abilities developed during these years often predict a child's future success or failure. Thus, this study advocates that early childhood educators can use GBL and mobile learning to create immersive educational spaces and narratives, acknowledging that children learn best when actively engaging in meaningful and exciting play activities.