Design and Development of a Mobile Spelling Game for Elementary Students Using Genetic Algorithms

Abstract

Spelling is an important skill for young learners to acquire to enhance language learning and improve a child's reading and writing skills. Due to a relatively basic level of spelling competency, many Arab children lack interest in the Arabic language learning process. This paper seeks to address the spelling weaknesses of young Arab children by designing an interactive mobile spelling game. The game is tailored for Arab students in upper elementary grades to aid in enhancing their ability to detect misspelled words. In the app, the learner can choose between playing the game or practicing without any score and select from three levels (beginner, intermediate, and advanced). When playing the app, the learner had to read the text, discover misspelled words, tap on them, and select the accurate spelling from a pop-up menu. Immediate feedback is presented when learners press the next button. Game levels will adjust according to the learner's ability to discover all the misspelled words in the given time frame based on the genetic algorithm theory.