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Gamificaiton is the practice of using game design elements, game mechanics and game thinking in non-game activities to motivate participants. For the purpose of this article we will be discussing gamification in eLearning but there are many examples of how gamification motivates behavior in loyalty programs, marketing and even recycling programs!
Gamification is different from Learning Based Games because it takes the entire learning process and turns it into a game. To do this instructional designers will use game design elements which are digital objects and elements that make an experience game like. Examples of gamification design elements include: fixed rules, negative consequences, ranks, player effort, reputation and variable outcomes. Instructional designers will also use game mechanics and game thinking. Game mechanics are rules and feedback loops which include tactics like point systems, leaderboards, levels, rewards and time constraints. Game thinking, on the other hand, aims to create immersive experiences like storytelling, challenges and requests.
This is where it gets slightly confusing because learned based games also use the aforementioned gaming mechanics, elements and thinking. The difference is that learning based games will turn a singular learning objective from an eLearning course into a game whereas Gamificaiton takes the entire eLearning process and turns it into a game.
Via Miloš Bajčetić
