Gamification

Gamification is often misinterpreted and the result is more of a Game-based Learning experience. While both Gamification and Game-based Learning have their role in education and in business, they are not the same thing.

Game-based Learning, which can also be called using Serious Games, is a unique gaming experience or simulation that is designed to cater to the specific learning needs of a group. It is often an immersive experience, and is based in moving the learner towards a specific learning goal.

This methodology often employs existing games, either right off the shelf or modified to suit a specific need. This can range from simple games like Mathematic Flash cards, or word games all the way to simulations like “The Real Game” where students undergo a full simulation wherein they apply life skills. Teachers have been known to create their own versions of games, built to the specific learning needs of their students. This is not an easy task. It is very time consuming and will require revisiting elements for improvement when desired reactions and learning are not achieved. Since it is modified by the teacher for their specific students it can be very successful in engaging the students and achieving specific goals, plus it can be more cost effective.

Gamification is applying game based elements to existing content to increase interest and motivation. Elements that might be present are things like badges, rewards, recognition, opportunities for alternative, self-selected activities or for the sake of competition. These elements increase achievement by offering specific goal orientation, increased persistence, repetition and collaboration. While Gamification may include games, gamification is not just playing games.   It is a system of elements that work together with the content to encourage participation and improve motivation. It may include badges, trophies, experience points (XP), or unlocking special content, but the activities that result in rewards are not necessarily games. Examples of gamification in real world situations include things like merit badges in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, bonus reward points or miles for credit card use, leveling up in a video game, and the current A to F grading system (how many A-s can you acquire?). “What is important in gamification is that is does engage and help people to achieve their real life goals using appropriate gaming elements and dynamics.” (Kim, 2015)

The difference between the two, simply stated, is that Gamification is an encouragement system using game-like mechanics applied to learning activities that promotes engagement in learning activities. Game based Learning is about playing games and having those games produce “cognitive residue” either of the game itself or the academic content.