‘Gamification’ is a fancy word that has been largely used in the education and learning sector for many years. But what does it actually mean and how can it lead to improved learning outcomes?
In this guide we’re going to explain the benefits of gamification in learning and how both teachers and parents can use it to increase students’ concentration and knowledge.
WHAT IS GAMIFICATION?
Simply put, the definition of gamification is the use of game-design elements and game principals in non-game contexts. For example, in-game principals and themes such as acquiring virtual ‘points’ or other currency, and completing series of tasks or activities to advance to the next level, may be used in contexts other than gaming to provide fun and stimulation for the learner.
Gamification can also be defined as a set of activities and processes to solve problems by using the characteristics of game elements.
Whilst typical game elements are by no means new, they have indeed become increasingly common in non-game contexts such as websites, digital marketing, enterprise applications and even virtual to-do lists and productivity tools.
One huge area where gamification is highly prevalent, however, is in education.