# Psychological Foundations for Effective Human-Computer Interaction in Education
## 6 Implementation of the Framework and Case Studies
### EU-Project Educational Platforms  
EduTechRPGs (ENACT, ACCORD, and S-Cube) are interactive role-playing games designed to enhance soft-skills training through simulation-based learning [41; 46; 47; 48]. Several EU-funded projects have leveraged this framework to enhance education through simulation-based learning. Examples include the following:  
* ENACT: Focuses on training negotiation and communication skills through AI-driven role-playing games that simulate real-life conflict resolution scenarios. * SG-ACCORD: Specializes in intercultural conflict resolution; players engage in interactive simulations to develop their ability to manage diverse social interactions effectively. * S-Cube: A multiplayer role-playing game that promotes collaboration, teamwork, and strategic decision-making in professional and educational contexts. * CODINC: A role-playing platform that promotes digital inclusivity, catering to learners from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. * Hyper-Activity Books (HABs): Multisensory educational tools that integrate tactile and visual elements, improving accessibility for learners of varying abilities. The design of these EU-funded educational platforms is deeply rooted in established psychological frameworks, particularly Cognitive Load Theory, Emotional Intelligence Theory, and Self-Determination Theory. These theories collectively shape the pedagogical strategies implemented within these platforms, ensuring an effective and immersive learning experience. More specifically, the methodology for creating valid and effective learning experiences in Educational Technology-Enhanced Role-Playing Games (EduTechRPGs) is structured within three interconnected layers: Visible, Hidden, and Evaluation [20; 39; 40; 46]. This multi-layered architecture makes EduTechRPGs immersive, adaptive, and effective, bridging theory and practice in aid of real-world skill development. 1. Visible layer--the gameplay and narrative that the player directly interacts with, including dialogue choices, character interactions, and immersive visual elements. This layer ensures engagement and provides realistic, scenario-based learning experiences. 2. Hidden layer--the underlying pedagogical and psychological models that shape in-game decision-making and character behaviors. It embeds theories such as negotiation, assertive communication models, and emotional intelligence principles, ensuring that every interaction aligns with learning objectives. The identified psychological theory (i) defines AI-driven avatars' responses, (ii) shapes dialogue and non-verbalcues, and (iii) ensures that AI avatars display realistic facial expressions and body language and use an appropriate tone of voice. This layer operates in the background, but directly influences the player's experience. Though not explicitly visible, the Hidden layer affects game dynamics, guiding the player toward real-world applicable skills through contextualized decision-making. 3. Evaluation layer--the assessment and feedback system, which tracks the player's actions, evaluates their soft skills, and provides personalized feedback based on their choices. This layer actively monitors, assesses, and provides feedback to reinforce learning through the following means: * Real-time AI-driven reactions help players understand the immediate impacts of their choices. * Post-scenario reports break down strengths, areas for improvement, and alternative strategies. * Learning analytics track behavioral trends, enabling AI tutors to adjust difficulty levels and suggest improvements. This layer ensures that players receive structured insights on communication effectiveness, progressively refining their skills. In summary, while the Visible layer presents engaging gameplay through dialogue-based scenarios, the Hidden layer ensures that the role-playing interactions reflect real-world communication and negotiation models. Meanwhile, the Evaluation layer provides structured feedback that helps players refine their skills through iterative learning.