YIN1426: MATHRACE : LEARNING THROUGH STRATEGY AND PLAY

NUR IRDINA DANIELA BINTI MOHD ALI SMK BANDAR BARU SINTOK

Mastering multiplication tables is a foundational mathematical skill, yet many students struggle due to the repetitive and uninspiring nature of traditional rote learning. MATHRace is an innovative board game prototype (TRL 4) designed to bridge the gap between play and education. Aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education), this project replaces boring drills with a high-stakes, competitive environment. The methodology integrates unique Game-Based Learning (GBL) mechanics, including customizable tile pathways and character-specific "special abilities" that require players to use multiplication and addition strategically to advance. Unlike standard games, MATHRace forces active mental calculation to avoid in-game penalties. Following a rigorous two-week classroom intervention, data revealed a significant 16.9% increase in average academic scores. Furthermore, 74% of students demonstrated improved calculation speed, while 68% showed measurable gains in accuracy. Beyond the numbers, 81% of participants reported a boost in self-confidence, proving that MATHRace not only enhances cognitive performance but also fosters a genuine interest in mathematics. This project demonstrates that strategic gameplay is a powerful, scalable tool for achieving long-term mastery of fundamental STEM skills