Dr Anjuman Shaheen
Lecturer, Game Programming MSc
Dr Anjuman Shaheen (she/her) is a Lecturer in Game Programming at Falmouth University, specialising in game programming and design. With a PhD in Game Design, Anjuman’s research focuses on integrating reflective learning into digital game-based learning to enhance engagement and retention. She has published work in different conferences and journal i.e., ECGBL and MDPI Special Edition journals, with her research gaining recognition through citations and practical applications in game development.
Her future research explores understanding neuroplasticity in reflective game design to enhance game-based learning, aiming to deepen the connection between cognitive adaptability and player experiences.
Before joining Falmouth University, Anjuman gained industry and academic experience in game development, working on projects that explored user experience, Augmmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and AI-driven game mechanics. She has supervised both undergraduate and postgraduate students, supporting them in areas such as game programming, XR programming, camera systems, serious game design, and game-based learning.
At Falmouth, Anjuman teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate modules, including Advanced Game Programming and Digital Games Technology. She is passionate about fostering an interactive and inclusive learning environment, encouraging students to apply research-driven methodologies to their game projects.
External Links
Qualifications
Qualifications
| Year | Qualification | Awarding body |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | PhD - Developing Reflective Game Design (RGD) Recommendations for Digital Game-based Learning | University of Brighton |
Honors and awards
| Year | Description |
|---|---|
| 2022 | Selected as a mentor of the “Research Mentoring and Leadership Scheme” provided by the University of Brighton. |
| 2020 | Project Madhunt: A Shield and Certificate of Appreciation Technology Innovation Pioneers Tip Summit, 2020, Abu Dhabi, UAE |
| 2019 | Madhunt-John-nifer, 3rd prize winner Shift balance hackathon (March30, 2019 To March 31, 2019), Islamabad, Pakistan |
| Featured as a part of “Pakistani Women in Gaming” International Game Developers Association (IGDA Pakistan) and Pakistani Women in Computing – (PWiC) |
|
| 2017 | Incubation Space for MadHunt project in National Incubation Centre. Islamabad, Pakistan |
Research Interests
Research interests and expertise
Dr Anjuman Shaheen researches reflective learning in game-based learning (GBL), cognitive science, and game programming. Her PhD focused on Reflective Game Design (RGD), demonstrating how structured reflection in games enhances critical thinking, engagement, and knowledge retention. She developed an RGD framework that bridges reflective learning theory and game design, offering practical insights for serious games and educational tools.
Her current research explores the connection between neuroplasticity and reflective game design. She investigates how game-based interventions shape cognitive adaptability, strengthen memory, and improve problem-solving. Her work also examines dopaminergic reward systems to understand how reflective mechanics, such as feedback prompts and ethical dilemmas, can drive long-term learning and engagement. This research aims to develop a conceptual framework for designing games that actively support neuroplasticity and adaptive learning.
Beyond reflective learning, Anjuman’s expertise includes game programming, AI in games, and immersive technologies (AR, VR, XR). She welcomes supervision in reflective game design, cognitive science in games, AI-driven learning, and immersive technologies in education.
Research topics
- Reflective Game Design (RGD) in Game-Based Learning (GBL)
- Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Adaptability in GBL
- Enhancing Learning Outcomes through Reflective Mechanics in Digital Games
- Game Programming for Immersive Technologies (AR, VR, XR)
- AI-Driven Learning in Games
- Cognitive Science and Metacognition in Game-Based Education
- Dopaminergic Reward Systems in Reflective Learning
- Designing Games for Memory Consolidation and Problem-Solving
- Immersive Educational Tools Using Game Design
Research Students
Current research students
- Understanding Neuroplasticity in Reflective Game Design to Enhance Game-Based Learning
- Measuring Traffic Flow Efficiency Through Driver and Vehicle Parameters
- Exploring how data-driven approaches can optimise traffic management.
- Evaluating the Viability of Static Cameras as a Substitute for Dynamic Cameras in Third-Person Action-RPGs – Investigating innovative camera techniques to enhance gameplay and immersion.
Previous student supervision
- Application of AR for Improving Spatial Thinking Skills in Primary Level Mathematics – A project leveraging AR to enhance educational outcomes.
- Integrated Science for Middle School Via Interactive Digital Book – Developing an engaging and interactive digital platform for science education.
- User research on reflective learning in game-based learning
Number of research students supervised to completion
3Professional Engagement
Independent professional practice
PhD Dissertation: "Developing Reflective Game Design Recommendations for Digital Game-Based Learning". This work has been recognised for its significant contribution to the field of reflective learning in game-based learning (GBL),
Journal Publication: Shaheen, A., Ali, S., & Fotaris, P. (2023). "Assessing the Efficacy of Reflective Game Design: A Design-Based Study in Digital Game-Based Learning." Published in Education Sciences (13(12), 1204). This paper highlights the impact of reflective game design on GBL effectiveness.
Peer Reviewed Conference Papers:
- Presented at the 17th European Conference on Game-Based Learning (ECGBL) (2023), focusing on reflective learning in GBL, which was later published in the proceedings.
- Presented at the 16th European Conference on GBL (2022) and chaired a poster session.
- Contributed to the 18th European Conference on GBL (2024), discussing the enhancement of GBL through reflective game design (RGD).
Mentorship and Recognition: Selected as a mentor for the "Research Mentoring and Leadership Scheme" at the University of Brighton, showcasing recognition of leadership and mentorship in research within the field of educational technology and game design.
Technology Innovation Award: Awarded a Shield and Certificate of Appreciation for contributions to Project Madhunt at the Technology Innovation Pioneers Tip Summit, Abu Dhabi, UAE (2020), acknowledging the project’s innovative approach.
Hackathon Achievement: 3rd Prize Winner in the Shift Balance Hackathon (2019), Islamabad, Pakistan, for the Madhunt-John-nifer project, highlighting recognition in the game development community.
Industry Recognition: Featured as part of "Pakistani Women in Gaming" by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) and Pakistani Women in Computing (PWiC) (2019), acknowledging contributions to the gaming industry and promoting diversity in the field.
Incubation Space Award: Awarded an Incubation Space for the MadHunt project at the National Incubation Centre in Islamabad, Pakistan (2017), supporting the development of innovative technology solutions.
Engagement with professional associations and societies
European Conference on Game-Based Learning (ECGBL)
- Active participant and contributor to conference presentations and research discussions.
- Presented research on reflective game design and its application in game-based learning.
International Conference on Education Development and Studies
- Presented research on Applying Reflective Game Design Frameworks (RGD) through the Lens of Design Thinking in Developing Serious Game.
