Gamification isn’t something new in education. Different forms of gamification have been used in learning for quite some time. The recent proliferation of digital technologies has revamped gamification with more possibilities and new ways to integrate it into teaching methodologies. The importance of gamification became evident during covid when hybrid learning environments became the norm. Among the benefits of gamification in education are better student engagement and the creation of virtual communities that learners can feel part of.
What is gamification in education?
Gamification in education is the adaptation of core design characteristics and ideas usually found in games in a teaching setting. There are many ways to utilize gamification in learning. Still, its primary benefit is that learners, especially young students, are quite responsive. Thus, increasing their engagement in the learning process. Inserting gaming elements in education is good for capturing learners’ interest and making the process fun and enjoyable. Students can focus more and learn better than in a traditional school setting when learning is fun.
With the advancement of technology, video games have become even more appealing and affordable than in the past. At the same time, the gaming populace is increasing year by year.
With video games becoming more mainstream, many are already comfortable with the various elements of gamification.
Benefits of gamification in learning and student engagement
Gamification enhances learning and is a powerful ally to education, especially in hybrid learning environments. The core idea behind gamification is to engage all students with the material to leave no one behind. Gamified learning increases student engagement in these ways:
- Increases motivation to learn.
- It helps students understand complex material better and retain that knowledge.
- It makes learning fun and enjoyable.
- Allows greater experimentation with various teaching methods.
- Encourages positive behaviors.
- Increases the socialization of learners and creates a sense of belongingness.
How gamification in education works
In modern education, technology is the main drive behind the gamification craze in learning, but not the only. Essentially, gamification utilizes the way the human brain is programmed to function.
Psychology also plays an important part in gamification’s effectiveness. Humans are competitive by nature, and they don’t like having unfinished work. Acknowledging this and taking advantage of this innate human characteristic is behind gamification’s success. A good and successful game-based learning environment can amplify these human instincts.
Gamification in education achieves better engagement because it goes further than simply an innovative teaching approach fully utilizing what technology offers. Gamified learning tries to hook learners by offering recognition and awards for their learning achievements. Particularly, it is not uncommon to use a reward system like points accumulation, badges, leaderboards, and other challenges that enhance student participation and motivation through gratification.
Conclusion
Even though gamification has been around for quite some time, recent developments in digital technologies give gamification in education a new momentum. With hybrid learning environments becoming more common, there is a unique opportunity for gamification to step in. Game-based learning is an empowering tool at the hands of educators that can revolutionize teaching and the way people learn.