DevJourney - A Dynamic AI-Based Educational Game For Aspiring Software Engineers
TL;DR
DevJourney is presented, a Generative AI-powered educational game that supports experiential and adaptive learning and highlights the potential of AI-enhanced game-based learning to strengthen software engineering education and better prepare students for industry practice.
Abstract
Computer science graduates often struggle to apply software engineering theory to practice. Skills such as applying Agile methodologies, working with industry tools, and understanding end-to-end software development workflows remain challenging to acquire through traditional coursework alone. This paper presents DevJourney, a Generative AI-powered educational game that supports experiential and adaptive learning. Grounded in Bloom’s Taxonomy and informed by empirical findings from students, lecturers, and software engineers, the system simulates key stages of the Software Development Life Cycle using AI-generated scenarios and feedback. A summative evaluation revealed positive perceptions of usability, engagement, and learning support, highlighting the potential of AI-enhanced game-based learning to strengthen software engineering education and better prepare students for industry practice.
