Mobile game intervention for creating awareness on beach sustainability for educating preschoolers

Abstract

Beaches are essential ecosystems that support biodiversity and tourism, but they face increasing threats from litter and plastic pollution. This research was conducted in Langkawi, a UNESCO Global Geopark and popular island destination, where environmental conservation is critical. The research investigated the effectiveness of mobile games in enhancing preschooler’s awareness of beach littering and sustainability practices through digital, play-based learning. A total of 115 six-year-old preschoolers from preschools in Langkawi participated in this research. Participants were identified through voluntary-based sampling, with full consent obtained from school administration, teachers, parents, and the children themselves. The research employed a qualitative pre- and post-questionnaire, comparing a control group (n=57) with an experimental group (n=58). A guided questionnaire was administered before and after the intervention to measure baseline knowledge and post-intervention awareness. The experimental group plays Clean My Beach, which is publicly available. The objective of this research is a) to identify preschoolers' existing knowledge and awareness of beach littering, b) to enhance their understanding through educational games, and c) to evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile game intervention in promoting sustainability education. The methodology approach employed a structured and guided pre- and postquestionnaire (RQ1 and RQ3), guided by a control vs. experimental group, KM7 descriptors checklist from KSPK adopted to answer RQ2. Findings revealed that preschoolers had limited knowledge about beach littering initially. However, significant improvement was observed in the experimental group following gameplay. The posttest mean score for the experimental group (M = 4.67) was substantially higher than the control group (M = 1.58), with p < 0.001; the mobile game was effective in promoting awareness. This research demonstrates the value of mobile game-based learning as a practical, engaging tool for environmental education in early childhood settings. It contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 6, 4,6,12 and 14 by showcasing how digital tools can promote quality education, clean water awareness, waste reduction, and marine conservation. Future research should explore adaptation for learners with diverse needs and assess long-term impacts on behaviour and sustainable values.