INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CHANGES IN EDUCATION
Review

Challenges with Gamification in Higher Education: A Narrative Review with Implications for Educators and Policymakers

International Journal of Changes in Education, 1(1), 2024, 51-56, https://doi.org/10.47852/bonviewIJCE32021604
Publication date: Feb 29, 2024
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ABSTRACT

This narrative review critically examines the application of gamification in higher education. Gamification, the integration of game elements into learning, is increasingly used to enhance student engagement and motivation. However, the effectiveness of gamification depends on its alignment with learning objectives. Superficial use of game elements, such as irrelevant badges, can hinder meaningful learning outcomes. Moreover, over-reliance on extrinsic rewards can lead to short-term motivation but may compromise deep learning. Additionally, a competitive culture fostered by gamification might hinder collaboration and stress individual achievement. To harness gamification’s benefits, educators must carefully design game mechanics to promote collaboration, select suitable activities, and consider diverse learning styles. This review underscores the need for thoughtful integration of gamification and the importance of evaluating its impact on pedagogical goals in higher education. The article concludes by providing implications for research and practice.

KEYWORDS

higher education game-based learning gamification classroom technology pedagogy motivation challenges

CITATION (APA)

Fuchs, K. (2024). Challenges with Gamification in Higher Education: A Narrative Review with Implications for Educators and Policymakers. International Journal of Changes in Education, 1(1), 51-56. https://doi.org/10.47852/bonviewIJCE32021604
Harvard
Fuchs, K. (2024). Challenges with Gamification in Higher Education: A Narrative Review with Implications for Educators and Policymakers. International Journal of Changes in Education, 1(1), pp. 51-56. https://doi.org/10.47852/bonviewIJCE32021604
Vancouver
Fuchs K. Challenges with Gamification in Higher Education: A Narrative Review with Implications for Educators and Policymakers. International Journal of Changes in Education. 2024;1(1):51-6. https://doi.org/10.47852/bonviewIJCE32021604
AMA
Fuchs K. Challenges with Gamification in Higher Education: A Narrative Review with Implications for Educators and Policymakers. International Journal of Changes in Education. 2024;1(1), 51-56. https://doi.org/10.47852/bonviewIJCE32021604
Chicago
Fuchs, Kevin. "Challenges with Gamification in Higher Education: A Narrative Review with Implications for Educators and Policymakers". International Journal of Changes in Education 2024 1 no. 1 (2024): 51-56. https://doi.org/10.47852/bonviewIJCE32021604
MLA
Fuchs, Kevin "Challenges with Gamification in Higher Education: A Narrative Review with Implications for Educators and Policymakers". International Journal of Changes in Education, vol. 1, no. 1, 2024, pp. 51-56. https://doi.org/10.47852/bonviewIJCE32021604

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