Summary of the project
This project has been developing a web-based multiplayer serious game to enhance the teaching of electricity markets. Recognizing the complexity of the subject, which involves large-scale optimization problems, concepts from various disciplines (such as power systems, microeconomics, and machine learning), and programming, the game is expected to be used in several existing courses: 5XWAO Power System Analysis and Optimization (undergraduate), 5LEP0 Electricity markets: modeling and optimization (graduate) and 5SEF0 Smart grids, ICT and electricity markets (graduate). The game platform represents different short-term electricity market structures, using real-world data to increase realism. Students form teams, assume the role of a company, and strive to maximize their revenue through custom strategies, thus applying theoretical knowledge in a practical, engaging environment. The project includes tasks such as embedding the game in course planning, developing the game platform, and evaluating its impact on student engagement and learning outcomes.
Aim of the project
The project has aimed to enhance the teaching and learning process of electricity markets through gamification, anticipating increased student creativity, understanding of technical content, and practical application of theoretical knowledge. By embedding gamification, the project aims to promote hands-on learning, stimulate competition, and foster 21st-century skills such as digital literacy, problem-solving, and teamwork. The project hypothesizes that teaching electricity markets through a serious game will improve student performance, motivation, and ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations. Additionally, the project seeks to gather significant experience regarding the benefits and challenges of gamification, which will inform the design of a future senior-level course specialized in electricity markets. Ultimately, this initiative supports the TU/e vision on education for 2030, emphasizing research-driven learning and innovative teaching methods.
Results and learnings
[1] J.S. Giraldo, K. Kok, N.G. Paterakis, “A stand-alone simulation game for the participation of wind producers in day-ahead electricity markets”, in Proc. of the 2021 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON), April 2021.
[2] J.S. Giraldo, K. Kok, N.G. Paterakis, “Development, application, and evaluation of an online competitive simulation game for teaching electricity markets”, Computer Applications in Engineering Education, vol. 30, pp. 759-778, 2022.
[3] J.S. Giraldo, K. Kok, N.G. Paterakis, “A structured review on game-based learning applied to electrical power and energy engineering”, Computer Applications in Engineering Education, vol. 32, Art. no. e22686, 2024.
[4] P.P. Phyo, K. Kok, N.G. Paterakis, “Synthetic dataset generation for an electricity market simulation game”, in Proc. of the 2024 International Conference on Smart Systems and Technologies (SEST), September 2024.
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