Online Game-Based Parental Groups: The Experiences of First-Time Expectant Parents

Abstract

Although evidence exists on the use of gamification and serious games in many fields, game-based methods are a relatively new phenomenon in the family services sector. This study focused on the implementation of game-based online parental groups organized for first-time expectant parents and participants’ experiences of playing together. In total, 26 Finnish first-time expectant parents participated in the study. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Three main themes describing the expectant parents’ experiences were related to the game as a stimulator of discussion, the experience of gaming, and special features of online group discussion. It is concluded that playing online learning games with others can lower the threshold to participate and offer new possibilities for interactive parental education.