Gamification in the Classroom and Around the World

Over the past few years, Gamification has undoubtedly become a buzzword echoed through the hallways in the world of education. The opportunities to enhance learner success is magnified through incorporating the concept of gamification into curriculum and lessons.  Gamification is a door opener for students learning not only in the traditional brick and mortar settings, but also in the virtual arena.  At Pennsylvania Virtual Charter School, we utilize gamification not only to enhance student learning, but also to allow the student to connect to learning in a way that is relatable. For many learners today, gaming and video games are an integral part of their daily lives.  It is something that they can relate to, and sometimes connect with better than traditional style learning.  Gamification in education is becoming a popular trend that educators can use to connect with their students, and still meet educational standards that align with their class goals.  

So, what exactly is gamification in education? It is more than just playing a game of Wordle or solitaire, gamification has many layers of complexities that elevate the student learning process.  In an academic article, “The Analysis of Gamification”, authors Andrew Stott and Cameran Neustaedter, describe  it as, “the application of game dynamics, mechanics, and frameworks into non-game settings’. They go on to describe four different components of the gamification process in education. These concepts include the idea of the freedom to fail, rapid feedback, progression, and storytelling.  These four theories connect the world of education to the gaming world.

The nuts and bolts of gamification include: points, leaderboards, levels, missions, and challenges.  These basic elements can be used to foster a unique learning environment specifically crafted for each student.  Not only does playing a game encourage participation,  but allows the student to make mistakes, choose the wrong answers and sometimes miss the mark completely.   The idea of the “freedom to fail” grants  students the space to “redo” an assignment, dig a little deeper to find the right answer and create a learning environment free of some of the traditional pressures in learning. Student attention spans are often limited and in some situations, by the time they receive feedback for a missed component of a lesson, it could be too late to relearn. Partnering with the concept of the freedom to fail is rapid feedback.   Rapid feedback gives the opportunity for a student to have instant access to what they did not fully understand, and quickly forms the path to seek the correct solution. Having instant access to a score of achievement can increase student motivation. In a world of instant access at the click of a button, this quick turn around could keep attention spans in check. 

The benefits of gamification are numerous as it promotes active learning by incentivizing participation and reduces the fear of failure.  In my ELA courses, I utilize a variety of different styles of games that partner with the lesson, often I use the time as a reward for the students. They enjoy the opportunity to play for fun, and at the same time they are testing their knowledge.  Blooket is one favorite of my students, and they are very excited to play. It asks questions but also offers the opportunity for students to strategize. Blooket provides the options to customize games that align with educational goals.  Blooket also has the option for teachers to create topic reviews, or introduce new information to the student that they can learn independently in class or for homework.  Blooket also gives real-time feedback for students to correct mistakes and relearn material.  

Some games have levels that students must master one chunk of information before they can move to the next level.  This concept progression partners along with scaffolding in student learning, breaking the information down into smaller chunks that can be managed in a setting.  A game could follow the same pattern, each level you master leads you to the next mangeable chunk of information.  Perhaps a student levels up each time they achieve mastery in that area, another great motivator to keep on learning!  Lastly, the component of storytelling- the game is designed to tell a story and lead the player through a sequence of events  Think determining main ideas or supporting details when reading a story, same thing can be applicable in a game design.  

PA Virtual Charter School science teacher, Ms. Betzenberger described how she utilizes gamification in her virtual classroom. One online educational site, utilized in her classroom is Quizzes, which recently students completed a lab-with a game like setting which provided real-time feedback-another positive aspect of gamification in educational settings.  Ms.Betzenberger also uses another educational site called Nearpod. In her ESS (Earth Space and Science) class, her students interacted in an engaging game of “Time to Climb”. In this particular game, the learning strategies and video lessons were interlaced to create a lively atmosphere. 

Other gaming platforms such as Kahoot, GoNoodle, National Geographic Kids, Classcraft, and ABCyA offer a variety of educational related games. These games not only can be integrated into the classroom but for learning coaches and families to use in supporting their students outside of the classroom. These apps are often geared to enhance at-home learning and improve students' educational experience. The options are endless in the ways to creatively engage students in gamifying their learning experiences from virtual scavenger hunts (Webquests), to progress-tracking boards, and peer challenges.  Students can compete with one another with student-driven projects or inter-class competitions.  

At PA Virtual Charter School, we are committed to innovative educational practices that align with modern student needs and preferences. Gamification in education provides an avenue for students that can open the door to increased engagement, enhanced learning outcomes, and making education something enjoyable for students. Our educators strive to connect areas such as gamification and align with standards to give the best opportunities for learner success.  Gamification allows educators and learning coaches to have the opportunity to provide this dynamic tool for students to improve their skills and create an engaging learning environment.  The gamification possibilities are evolving daily, and it is worth investing your time to find the right matches for your learners.