How is this multiplayer online game engaging students in STEM?

For five years, a massively multiplayer online game (MMOG) named The Radix Endeavor has transformed fields of STEM learning (science, technology, engineering and math).This immersive virtual experience elevates STEM learning by placing its users in a 2D or 3D simulated world.Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation through a US$3 million grant, it has helped many high school learners and online learners understand the topics of STEM and apply them to their academic progress. Throughout the game, students cover concepts in biology, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics. Task-based assessments for each topic area are embedded and teachers can use the data to monitor progress and tailor lessons.Described as an “Earth-like world in which science is being kept from the people by an evil ruler”, the players are part of an underground group that’s trying to take science back by solving the island’s environmental and social problems and by exploring unknown plants, animals and mysterious locations. Despite facing potential scepticism about the true effectiveness of an online game, data from The Radix Endeavor is synthesised and displayed on a ‘Teacher Portal’ website that helps professors monitor their students’ progress and tailor the lesson to their needs.