Date of Award
Spring 5-7-2026
Document Type
Project (696 or 796 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in School Psychology
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Prof. Joshua Johnson
Keywords
Zoo U, Centervention, social-emotional learning, game-based learning, computer interventions
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to evaluate the effects of Zoo U, a digital game-based social-emotional learning (SEL) intervention, on a third-grade student's self-control and peer relationship skills. Zoo U focuses on teaching social skills by providing practice opportunities through a virtual simulation that mimics realistic school scenarios, targeting 6 core skill areas: communication, cooperation, emotion regulation, empathy, impulse control, and social initiation. The student participant received the intervention service once each week for nine sessions. Progress monitoring measures included student self-report direct behavior ratings (DBR), observational DBR reporting from the student’s classroom teacher, and Zoo U activity reports. Results indicated minimal change according to the students’ self-reports, whereas teacher ratings showed slight positive changes. The outcomes of this case study note that multiple data-collection sources are ideal for drawing conclusions, suggesting that Zoo U may work to improve student engagement and SEL skill development, along with proper dosage implementation consistent with program recommendations, to increase the likelihood of positive student outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Reemts, Georgia B., "Zoo U: An Emotional Wellness Intervention Case Study" (2026). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 1146.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/1146