7-2 Games and Gamification

Games and Gamification

Note the distinction between ‘educational games’ and the idea of ‘gamification’ in education and training. The former are games used to support or encourage learning – they have their own game-based environment. Consider this simple math game that has you solve math challenges in your head as a timer runs. It’s essentially a multiple choice quiz in game format. Games can be included in e-learning courses to reinforce concepts, but be careful that the format and presentation are appropriate for your topic and your target audience – and that the game prioritizes high psychological activity, not just busy-work behavioral activity. Software programs like GameSalad and Adventure Game Studio make it possible for non-programmers to create their own games using pre-designed game elements.

Gamification, on the other hand, is the idea that we can use some of the elements and mechanics common in the gaming world to increase engagement and motivation in a non-game context. Consider how Starbucks is leveraging a game mechanic by encouraging customers to earn stars that lead to Starbucks coffee rewards in their corporate rewards program. Gamification is a potentially very useful instructional design tactic. As with many e-learning strategies, though, it shouldn’t be just thrown into a course as a gimmick. Gamification elements should be implemented cautiously and in appropriate context, with a healthy dose of common sense and always remembering the perspective of the learner. Game elements used unwisely can easily create situations where learners feel manipulated, condescended to, or like their time is being wasted. Gamification done well, though -like Connect with Haji Kamal‘s use of the desire to ‘win’ the scenario – can be an extremely powerful tool for motivation.

Scan this list of 47 game mechanics to get an idea of the kinds of game elements that can be incorporated in e-learning.

Basic Psychology of Gamification

Gamification leverages a neurotransmitter called dopamine, a key chemical in your brain’s reward system. New studies show that dopamine is not just released when you feel pleasure, but is in fact linked even more strongly to motivation. It’s produced not just when you experience something pleasurable, but also when you anticipate or recognize an event that requires you to act in a way that could result in a reward. Being exposed to frequent incremental goals with potential rewards therefore increases the flow of dopamine and motivates you to continue the experience. Consider the success of the game Candy Crush Saga (93 million daily users!):

Why Candy Crush Is So Addictive (3:41)