DeliverC: Teaching Pointers through GenAI-Powered Game-Based Learning (2509.14496v1)

Abstract: While game-based learning is widely used in programming education, few tools offer adaptive, real-time support for complex topics, such as C pointers. We present DeliverC, a GenAI-enhanced game that integrates GPT-4-mini to provide personalized hints and generate pointer-related challenges on the fly. In a pilot study involving 25 undergraduate students, we investigated the impact of the system on learning through gameplay data and a 15-item survey that covered constructs such as motivation, self-efficacy, metacognition, and feedback quality. Results show that most students felt more confident and reflective after using the tool, and error rates decreased as students progressed through scaffolded levels. However, participation decreased with task difficulty, and some students reported receiving unclear or vague feedback. These findings suggest that DeliverC can enhance engagement and understanding in systems programming, although refinement in AI-generated feedback is still needed. Our study highlights the potential of combining GenAI with game-based learning to support personalized and interactive practice in traditionally challenging programming domains.