Video Game Pursuit (VGPu) Scale Development: Designing and Validating a Scale With Implications for Game-Based Learning and Assessment

Abstract

Background: Recent research on game-based assessment and training demonstrates growing interest in how individual differences affect game-based outcomes. However, there is still a lack of clarity about the variables that affect important game-based outcomes and issues with measurement approaches regarding these variables (e.g., no validation of scales). This study develops a model where video game pursuit (VGPu) is measured as an antecedent to entering the gaming cycle proposed by Garris et al. (2002). We propose that VGPu-related antecedents lead to a feedback loop where engaging in the game cycle affects game-related outcomes which again affect the antecedents of re-entering the game cycle. Moreover, we validate a measure of VGPu and provide construct as well as criterion validity evidence. Methods: Within three studies (N = 716) we develop and validate the VGPu scale - a psychometrically sound measure of intentions to pursue video games. Using Amazon’s MTurk (Studies 1, 2), participants responded to the VGPu items and we conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses showing that VGPu consists of a general latent VGPu factor with four subfactors (Intentional Game Play, Generalized Game Self-Efficacy, Enjoyment of Games, Prone to Game Immersion). In Study 3, students responded to the VGPu items, to items examining construct validity, and played three video games from different genres to assess criterion validity of game performance and game reactions. Results: Results demonstrate construct and criterion validity showing that VGPu correlates with other game-related scales and predicts game performance and game reactions. Discussion: The findings demonstrate the value of the VGPu scale for research and practice because pursuing video games seems to be an important variable for predicting how individuals perform and react to game-based activities. Finally, we discuss implications for future research and practice in the realm of game-based assessment and training.