Function bank game: a teaching proposal in higher education with emphasis on economic functions

Abstract

 This study investigates the impact of learning methodology through games on teaching Mathematics to higher education students, through an adapted board game inspired by 'Monopoly'. The research addresses how the use of game elements influences the understanding of mathematical concepts, students' motivation to learn and their engagement in academic activities. Specific objectives include analyzing the effectiveness of the methodology, investigating its impact on student motivation and engagement, and evaluating students' perception of the learning experience. The literature review highlights the importance of active methodologies, such as games, in the educational process, emphasizing the transformation of students' role from mere receivers of knowledge to active protagonists of learning. The game 'Banco das Funções', a pedagogical adaptation of 'Banco Imobiliário', is presented as a teaching tool that aims to engage students with complex mathematical concepts in an accessible and engaging way. The methodology includes applying the game to Administration and Accounting students, followed by observation and analysis of the results. The results indicate that the game contributes to student learning, promoting interaction, collaboration and better understanding of mathematical concepts. It is concluded that gamification, through adapted board games, can be an effective strategy to make Mathematics teaching more interesting, motivating and engaging for higher education students.

Keywords: Active methodologies, Games, Teaching Mathematics.