Using ChatGPT to bring non-player characters to life: Effects on students’ storyline-driven game-based writing learning

This study introduces a novel design approach to game-based learning by integrating ChatGPT into the development of non-player characters (NPCs) within storylines. This integration seeks to enhance interactivity with student players and foster an immersive, dynamic learning environment. We applied this approach in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing classrooms to examine its impact on both the affective and cognitive aspects of student writing learning, as well as their writing performance. Utilizing a quasi-experimental design, the study involved two classes of Chinese undergraduate students. One class (n = 42) engaged with ChatGPT-powered NPCs, while the other class (n = 43) interacted with conventional NPCs in a storyline-based game designed to enhance argumentative writing skills. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires assessing students' intrinsic motivation, situational interest, cognitive load, and effort regulation. Additionally, student essays were evaluated to compare writing performance across the two conditions. Qualitative data, including students' chat histories with ChatGPT-powered NPCs, were gathered to investigate their interactions. The results indicated that engaging with ChatGPT-enhanced NPCs positively influenced students' intrinsic motivation and situational interest, leading them to invest greater effort in completing learning tasks. Notably, interactions with ChatGPT-enhanced NPCs did not increase students’ cognitive load during the learning process. Moreover, students who interacted with ChatGPT-powered NPCs exhibited superior writing performance, producing essays that were significantly clearer, more elaborated, and more persuasive, while also more effectively addressing opposing viewpoints. Additionally, students employed various conversational strategies while interacting with these NPCs. This study not only advances our understanding of the role of generative artificial intelligence in educational contexts but also provides valuable insights for educators seeking to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes through innovative instructional strategies.