The Role of Snakes and Ladders Educational Game in Enhancing Learning Motivation and Basic Arithmetic Operation Skills: A Case Study ofGrade 2 Ibnu Bajjah

The purpose of this study is to describe the role of the Snakes and Ladders educational game in enhancing learning motivation and basic arithmetic operation skills among second-grade students of Class 2 Ibnu Bajjah at SD Muhammadiyah Sapen Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This research employed a qualitative descriptive case study design. The participants consisted of 34 students (15 boys and 19 girls) enrolled in the mathematics subject at the end of the first semester. Data were collected through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, documentation, and field notes. Data analysis followed the stages of data reduction, coding, data display, and conclusion drawing, supported by source and methodological triangulation to ensure trustworthiness. The findings reveal that the Snakes and Ladders educational game effectively enhances students’ learning motivation, as indicated by increased enthusiasm, active engagement, persistence in solving problems, and reduced fear of making mistakes. In addition, students’ competency in arithmetic operations—particularly addition and subtraction within 100—improved through meaningful and repeated counting activities integrated into the game mechanics. The game also fostered a more collaborative and interactive classroom atmosphere, promoting positive peer interactions and cooperative problem-solving. These results suggest that the Snakes and Ladders educational game can serve as an effective instructional medium to improve the quality of mathematics learning in lower elementary grades. The study provides practical guidance for teachers to design meaningful and enjoyable game-based learning activities that support numeracy and motivation.