What is Mastory - Math as a Video Game

What Makes Mastory Unique?

Mastory is an innovative edtech platform reimagining math education through the lens of a video game. Designed to engage high school students and adult learners, Mastory combines narrative-driven episodes with cutting-edge AI to make algebra more accessible, enjoyable, and relevant. By transforming lessons into immersive, story-centric experiences - complete with sci-fi adventures and digital escape room challenges - it bridges the gap between traditional education and modern entertainment. Each episode focuses on a specific topic from rigorous high school math curricula, ensuring that playing the game leads to the achievement of tangible and clear learning objectives. As a result, students develop not only conceptual and procedural understanding, but also strategic and situational problem-solving skills.

Geometry as a Real-Life Adventure

For instance, in our demo episode, which focuses on trigonometric ratios, students are immersed in a mission to infiltrate a high-security research facility. They must use a theodolite to measure the heights of security towers, calculating the radius of each tower's detection field to find a safe path through the security system. This practical application transforms the abstract concept of trigonometry into a tangible, mission-related skill.

Bridging Visual and Abstract Thinking

Mastory integrates 3D and 2D representations to reinforce geometric concepts. Students interact with a 3D environment where they place the theodolite and make measurements, while simultaneously working with 2D schematics. This dual representation helps students connect abstract mathematical ideas with visual and spatial reasoning.

The platform also accommodates different student needs. For example, some students might approach the security tower challenge through trial and error, as they prefer to learn by experimenting. Others might feel better with a more methodical approach, carefully planning their measurements before taking action. Mastory supports both strategies, allowing students to learn at their own pace and in their preferred style.

Personalized Learning

Mastory's hint system provides another layer of personalized learning. When students struggle, like Nick in this episode, who is confused about the angle alpha, the other characters offer targeted discussions and visual aids. For instance, an animation demonstrating the relationship between tower height and angle measurement helps clarify the concept without giving away the solution.

Collaboration and Relevance Through Storytelling

Furthermore, Mastory incorporates collaborative elements. In the game, Nick communicates with his team members Alicia, VZ and the students, discussing strategies and asking questions. This mimics real-world problem-solving scenarios and encourages students to articulate their mathematical thinking, enhancing their understanding and communication skills.

By presenting mathematics through these engaging, story-driven episodes, Mastory not only teaches mathematical concepts but also demonstrates their real-world applications, making the subject more relevant and accessible to students.