Gamification and eLearning

Everyone knows that the ‘old’ way of learning from books is outdated. This applies not only in education but also in the business world. More and more organizations are switching to eLearning solutions to train or retrain their staff and students. But how do you ensure that this way of learning remains challenging for your students?

How gamification contributes to eLearning

Gamification is the addition of game techniques and elements to a non-game context. In eLearning, this means adding game techniques and elements to the learning process to positively influence this process. The benefits of gamification in eLearning are as follows:

• Challenging learning. By adding game elements to learning, such as a high score at the end of the learning or interim rewards for successfully completing a module, students are challenged to do their best and aim for better results. Of course, it is important to tailor the learning to your target audience so that these game elements are meaningful.
• Influence on behavior. People are most motivated when the motivation comes from within. This is called intrinsic motivation. If gamification is correctly applied to the learning (and thus your target audience!), the desired behavior can be achieved. This ultimately influences the mindset and work/learning attitude of the student.

Gamification doesn’t have to be difficult

When applying gamification to eLearning, you don’t have to overthink it. Gamification can, in its simplest form, mean a lot for the learning. For example, you can add the following elements to challenge your student:

• Set a time limit on questions to motivate the student to think faster.
• Play a video that requires interaction from the student, such as clicking on incorrect (or correct) actions.
• Encourage the student to do their best by locking chapters if previous chapters have not been successfully completed.
• Let the student choose a character they can relate to.
• Add a high score where the student can compare their performance with others.
• ‘Show the score’. Display how many points the student has achieved so far and how many points can be achieved in total.

And there are many more examples of gamification to think of!

How you can use gamification for eLearning

Chances are you’re now thinking: “But how do I apply gamification to my (future) eLearning?”

We have a lot of experience in setting up eLearning for our clients with a successful application of gamification. Do you need help with this or want to get started with eLearning? Contact us. We are happy to help!