Practices, purposes and challenges in integrating gamification using technology: A mixed-methods study on university...

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Pedagogy
• Higher Education

Background:

• Gamification is recognized for enhancing student engagement and motivation.
• Research has explored gamification benefits across educational levels.
• Academics' pedagogical understanding and skills in gamification, especially in higher education, remain under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate academics' practices, purposes, and challenges in integrating technology-based gamification.
• To uncover the pedagogical considerations academics employ when designing gamified lessons.
• To propose models for enhancing academics' gamification integration skills in higher education.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study was conducted at a Malaysian public university.
• Data was collected from academics' perspectives on gamification integration.
• Analysis focused on identifying pedagogical themes and challenges.

Main Results:

• Academics' gamification practices indicate potential for enhancement.
• Key pedagogical considerations include motivating students, facilitating thinking and problem-solving skills, engaging learners, promoting interaction, and achieving learning goals.
• Two models were proposed to improve academics' pedagogical knowledge and skills in gamification.

Conclusions:

• Academics' current gamification practices in higher education can be improved.
• Specific pedagogical themes guide the integration of gamification.
• The proposed models offer a framework for enhancing gamification implementation and effectiveness in higher education settings.