Development of JMASTER 2.0: An Improved Interactive Game-Based Tool for Teaching Java Programming in HEIs in CALABARZON

This study aimed to develop an enhanced version of J-Master, an interactive game-based tool for teaching basic java programming. The study was started with reviewing the existing features of J-Master in order to determine the problems, bugs and features that needs improvement. Also, data gathering by means of interview was conducted in order to consider the different teaching strategies of various HEIs in the region. It was found out that the features of the game-based tool suited to the needs and way of teaching in different schools in the region. However, suggestions on additional features were raised and noted to be considered in the improvement of the system. After identifying the problems and additional functionalities, development started following the initial phases of Rapid Application Development (RAD) namely, Requirements Planning, User Design and Construction. More organized menu, simple graphics and fixed bugs were some of the improvements that can be seen on the version 2. Additionally, features such as generating scores report, generating of student’s certificate and viewing of student’s code were added in the game as enhancement on the teacher console. Aside from the additional features, the version 2 aimed to have an ideal game content. To attain this, game content was conducted to seek feedback from the faculty respondents. Based from the validation results, the contents satisfied the criteria in terms of Appropriateness to the game, Technical Quality and Educational Quality. However, there were comments by the respondents in which were used on enhancing the game content. Lastly, the new version was subjected to evaluation participated by both faculty and student respondents. Based from the ratings, the system obtained the characteristics of being a game-based tool in terms of its functionality, organization design, instructional design and delivery and game-based learning characteristics.