UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF ONLINE GAMING COMMUNITIES
In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the subject
Practical Research I,
By
REMMUEL Y. LIBUHAN
MAY 2024
CHAPTER 1
The Problem
Introduction
Online gaming communities have become a prominent and influential aspect of
contemporary society, reshaping the way individuals engage in digital entertainment. These
virtual communities provide platforms for players to connect, collaborate, and compete,
creating dynamic social spaces within the realm of gaming. Understanding the role of online
gaming communities is crucial for comprehending their impact on individuals and society at
large. This study aims to delve into the history, background, and significance of these
communities, shedding light on their evolution, motivations, and implications.
The roots of online gaming communities can be traced back to the early days of
multiplayer gaming. In the 1970s and 1980s, with the advent of home computers and the rise
of arcade games, players began to connect and compete with each other. However, it was the
emergence of the internet in the 1990s that paved the way for the exponential growth of
online gaming communities. The development of multiplayer games, chat rooms, and forums
facilitated the formation of virtual communities where players could interact and share their
gaming experiences.
As technology advanced, online gaming communities evolved in both scale and
complexity. Massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) gained popularity, offering vast
virtual worlds where players could engage in cooperative and competitive gameplay. These
communities became hubs for social interaction, enabling players to forge friendships, form
guilds or clans, and participate in virtual economies. With the advent of social media
platforms and streaming services, online gaming communities expanded further, reaching a
global audience and solidifying their position as an integral part of gaming culture
Understanding the role of online gaming communities holds significant importance
across various domains. Firstly, from a social perspective, these communities provide
opportunities for individuals to connect with like-minded players, fostering a sense of
belonging and camaraderie. Exploring the social dynamics within these communities can
unveil the formation of social hierarchies, the emergence of leaders and influencers, and the
development of unique subcultures.
Secondly, studying online gaming communities has psychological implications. These
communities often serve as spaces for self-expression and identity exploration, allowing
players to adopt virtual personas and experiment with different aspects of their personality.
Additionally, the motivation to achieve in-game goals, the impact of competition on player
behavior and well-being, and the psychological benefits of social support within these
communities are all areas that warrant investigation.
Lastly, online gaming communities have significant cultural implications. They
contribute to the creation of shared experiences, narratives, and symbols within the gaming
world. These communities shape the way games are played, perceived, and discussed,
influencing game developers, media, and the broader gaming industry. Understanding the
cultural dynamics of online gaming communities can foster inclusivity, facilitate the design
of engaging and immersive experiences, and inform policymakers and stakeholders in the
gaming ecosystem.
In conclusion, delving into the role of online gaming communities provides valuable
insights into their historical development, motivations, and societal impact. This study is
essential for understanding the social, psychological, and cultural dimensions of these
communities, enabling the creation of inclusive gaming environments, the design of
meaningful gaming experiences, and the promotion of positive online interactions. By
embracing the complexities of online gaming communities, we can harness their potential to
shape the future of digital entertainment and human interaction in the digital age.
Statement of the Problem
1. How do online gaming communities influence social interaction among participants?
2. What role do online gaming communities play in shaping the development of social
skills, teamwork abilities?
3. What extent do online gaming communities contribute to the creation of inclusive and
supportive environments?
Scope and Delimitation of the Study
This study is limited to the perceptions of 15 respondents on understanding the role of
online gaming.
Significance of the Study
The following are the significance of the study:
For the gamers/ Players. For gamers/players, this study helps them realize the potential to
enhance their gaming experience. By delving into the dynamics and intricacies of online
gaming communities, the study can provide gamers with a deeper understanding of the social,
psychological, and cultural aspects that shape these communities. This knowledge can
empower gamers to navigate and engage more effectively within these communities, forge
meaningful connections with fellow players, and create a positive and inclusive gaming
environment that enriches their overall gaming journey.
For the parents. This study will provide them with valuable insights into the positive
aspects of online gaming communities. The study can help parents understand the social,
cognitive, and developmental benefits that their children can derive from participating in
these communities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the role these communities play in
their children's lives, parents can make more informed decisions, offer guidance and support,
and foster a balanced approach to their children's gaming activities, ensuring a safer and more
enriching gaming experience for them.
For the community. This study helps them to promote a better understanding and
appreciation of online gaming as a legitimate form of community engagement. By exploring
the social, psychological, and cultural dimensions of these communities, the study can help
break down stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding online gaming. It can foster a more
inclusive and accepting community that recognizes the value of virtual interactions,
celebrates the diversity of interests and hobbies, and encourages positive engagement both
online and offline.
For the future researcher. For future researchers helps them provide potential to serve as a
foundation for further exploration and advancements in the field. The study can provide a
comprehensive overview of the historical development, social dynamics, psychological
aspects, and cultural implications of online gaming communities. It offers a starting point for
future researchers to delve deeper into specific aspects, conduct more targeted investigations,
and contribute to the evolving understanding of the intricate relationship between online
gaming communities and their impact on individuals and society.
Definition of Terms
To have a common understanding of the terms used in this study, the following were
defined operationally.
Understanding. Is the process of comprehending or grasping the meaning, significance, or
nature of something. It involves gaining insight, knowledge, or awareness about a particular
subject or concept, often through observation, analysis, or study. Understanding goes beyond
surface-level awareness and involves a deeper comprehension and ability to make sense of
information or experiences.
Role. Refers to the function, position, or purpose that an individual or entity plays within a
particular context or system. It defines the responsibilities, tasks, and expectations associated
with a specific role or position. Roles can be formal or informal and shape the interactions,
contributions, and influence of individuals or entities within a given setting or situation.
Communities. Refers to groups of individuals who share common interests, values, or goals
and actively engage with one another. They involve social interactions, relationships, and a
sense of belonging among members who come together based on shared characteristics or
experiences. Communities can exist in various contexts, ranging from physical locations to
virtual spaces, and can contribute to social support, collaboration, and collective identity
formation.
Online gaming. Refers to the activity of playing video games over the internet, typically
involving multiple players from different locations. It encompasses a wide range of
interactive digital games that can be accessed and played through various platforms, such as
consoles, computers, or mobile devices. Online gaming enables players to engage in virtual
environments, compete or cooperate with other players, and often involves elements of social
interaction and communication.
Significant. Refers to something that holds importance, relevance, or meaning. It indicates
that an event, concept, or object has a notable impact, influence, or consequence. A
significant factor or finding is one that has substantial implications or makes a meaningful
difference in a given context.
Players/ Gamers. Are individuals who participate in playing video games as a form of
entertainment, recreation, or competition. They actively engage with digital games,
controlling characters or avatars within the game world to achieve objectives or overcome
challenges. Players/gamers can vary in skill levels, preferences, and motivations, but they all
share a common interest in exploring virtual worlds, experiencing gameplay mechanics, and
interacting with the game environment.
CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
Online gaming is becoming increasingly social and interconnected. Millions of
players learn from each other in game-related communities on platforms like Reddit and
Twitch.tv. However, few studies have been conducted to examine socially constructed
learning in such environments. The purpose of this study was to explore learning in game-
related communities using the Game Community of Inquiry Scale (GCoIS). GCoIS is a
validated instrument inspired by the community of inquiry framework and developed for
measuring constructed learning in these outlets. Over 1000 participants completed an online
questionnaire that included the GCoIS and additional variables (e.g. demographics, gaming
habits, and gaming metacognition) for measuring possible associations. Results pointed to
gender, age, online participation, and metacognition about gaming as significant predictors of
GCoIS. Findings suggest that gaming communities can serve as opportunities for meaningful
learning when novice members are welcomed and assisted by experts and support is given to
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