RPG SIMULATOR AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN LITERARY EDUCATION: perceptions of vocational education students

Abstract

Literary education is fundamental in shaping students as free citizens and competent readers, as it helps them to question the world and encourages learning about themselves, others and the world. However, it is not always easy to motivate students to study works from past eras. This preliminary study explored the integration of an RPG game simulator prompt for Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) interfaces in Portuguese classes. The main objective was to deepen the understanding of the historical context of the novel ‘Memorial do Convento’, particularly the period of the Inquisition in Portugal, with 12th grade vocational education students. Through a mixed research methodology, which included questionnaire surveys and participant observation, the students' perceptions and the impact of this approach were analysed. Initial results reveal a positive evaluation of the pedagogical strategy, an increase in student learning and metacognitive awareness, and suggest that RPG simulators with AIG chatbots can enhance engagement, critical thinking, and communication skills, contributing to the effective application of literary knowledge. This work opens up new possibilities for future research and practical interventions in the field of education.