Integrating games into the learning environment can increase learner engagement and sustain motivation using concepts like goals, interaction, feedback, problem solving, competition, and narrative. There are two approaches to incorporating games into instruction, Game-based learning (GBL) and gamification.
Game-Based Learning
Game-Based Learning is an active learning pedagogical approach where games are used to increase student engagement. The student learns from playing the game and promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Game-based learning integrated the course content and assignments into a digital or non-digital game and may include simulations that can allow students to experience the learning firsthand.
Gamification
Gamification is where game characteristics, elements, and principles are integrated into learning activities. Here, learning activities promote student engagement and motivation to learn. Components of gamification could be points systems, badges, leaderboards, discussion boards, quizzes and classroom response systems.
What is the difference?
Game-based learning uses games to teach specific learning objectives. Gamification adds game-like elements to a lesson.
| Category | Game-Based Learning | Gamification |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Using games to teach specific learning objectives | Adding game-like elements (badges, experience points, etc.) to a lesson. |
| Motivation | Games are designed to be intrinsically rewarding. May also be extrinsically rewarding. | Likely extrinsically rewarding (the reward is tied to grades). |
| Assessment | Is in-game. | Is not within the “game” |
| Adjustments | Lesson content is adjusted to fit the game. | Game-like aspects are adjusted to fit the lesson content. |
