Using Gamification to Increase Student Engagement

How can we spark a passion for learning in a world filled with routine quizzes, tests, discussion boards, and research papers? How can we increase motivation and maximize retention? The solution may lie in designing course activities that connect course content to real-world applications and incorporate elements of gamification.…
Real world application projects promote higher level thinking skills such as create, design, develop, defend, evaluate, judge, and select. The term gamification is relatively new in education (2008); it combines elements such as rewards, points, badges, story, challenge, sense of control, decision making, and sense of mastery to increase both extrinsic and intrinsic motivation (Kapp, 2012; Faiella & Ricciardi, 2015; Nicholson, 2015). The field of entrepreneurship is particularly well-suited to leverage these two concepts. Cases, real life application projects, and consultation projects can be turned into competitions that involve gamification elements.

Real-life application projects that include gamification components can enhance student engagement. However, attention must be paid to the composition and interactions within the group. The group’s composition in terms of gender identity (male, female, non-binary, LGBTQ+) and personality types (introvert, extrovert) can lead to awkward interactions. Expectations for respectful and professional exchanges must be upheld consistently. The needs of students with learning disabilities must also be considered. Assigning in-class reading tasks could put these students at a disadvantage.
Here are a couple of keys for a successful start. Key #1: Prepare! The first time you run a competition will take significant prep time; do not try to turn everything into a competition. When possible, collaborate with local businesses, businesspeople, and institutions. Outside participation brings out the best in students. Key #2: Be flexible! Things are bound to happen! Your judges might not show up on the presentation day/time as promised, you might overlook an important detail, there might be sick or no-show students, or the computer/projector might not work. Pivoting on the spot is a part of entrepreneurship. Key #3: Prizes! When appropriate, include prizes, gift cards, school swag, and brag on LinkedIn/social media.