With an estimated 15,000 predatory journals exploiting researchers worldwide, particularly early-career academics, traditional educational approaches have proven insufficient against increasingly sophisticated fraudulent tactics.
These deceptive publishers undermine scientific integrity and pose significant risks to researchers' careers and reputations.
The 'Goose & Academic Predator' project has secured funding from the British Academy/Leverhulme Small Research Grants scheme, and combines traditional board game mechanics with artificial intelligence to create an engaging educational experience. Players navigate scenarios that mirror real-world publishing challenges while learning to distinguish between legitimate and predatory publishers. The game's AI component provides dynamic, real-time feedback and adapts to create personalised learning experiences.
Designed as a free, open-source resource, the game will be available to academic institutions worldwide, with particular focus on supporting researchers in regions most affected by predatory publishing practices.
This innovative collaboration between gamification expertise, publishing research, and AI technology represents a new frontier in academic education, positioning the University of Sheffield at the forefront of scholarly integrity initiatives.
Dr Sbaffi said: "I have always been interested in gamification of learning. Several years ago I created a suite of student resources on academic integrity which also included an online game and I contributed to the 'Mind the Gap' human sized game presented by the Centre for Care at the last Festival of Social Science.