If you’re reading this article, then chances are you’ve heard quite a bit about the gamification used in marketing, sales, training, learning, and other fields that aren’t entertainment-related. Gamification, as defined in the dictionary, is “the application of typical elements of game playing to other areas of activity.”

This article will explore why gamifying education is essential, especially since we are now living in a time of remote learning and educating. We’ll explore some of the benefits of gamification and how it is being implemented. 

Read on for more. 

Gamification – an Overview

The turning point for gamification in education came with the development and creation of Foldit, a highly-popular online puzzle video game. It is a popular science game created by Seth Cooper, who is currently the Center for Game Science’s creative director. 

Foldit, which is now used as a useful tool used to understand science better, is the first successful gamification case. Even though the game industry has previously experienced several economic sessions, it continues to grow and evolve. Official stats have shown that 51% of all households in the US own a dedicated game console. Those that have a console own two on average. 

What are the Benefits?

There are many benefits to gamification, not only with in-classroom learning but for remote learning. Making remote learning as easy and accessible as possible has become more critical than ever, as most schools remain closed due to the pandemic.

Here are some of those benefits:

Increased classroom engagement

In some cases, exercising with interactive games can be just as effective as regular exercise. This kind of activity can become quite beneficial to young adolescents who enjoy playing video games but are not physically active. 

Aiding the cognitive development in adolescents

Gamification as a tool to aid cognitive development in adolescents can and will allow an increase in the activity of the brain’s areas that promote proper development. Games that are specially designed for the enhancement of cognitive development are usually aptly called brain games. 

This type of game has become more popular over the years as classrooms have become more technologically advanced. 

Increased classroom accessibility

Gamification can also be used as a tool for teaching students of all ages. Scientists have studied gamification’s effectiveness in the classroom in the form of a video game to teach students with Autism 4. 

The result? The training package was effective for teaching content that was appropriate for their ages, using gamification. 

Gamifying a Remote Learning Environment

Educators face many difficulties when it comes to remote learning, especially those who were not familiar with the concept before the pandemic. Gamification can make things easier in several ways. 

Try to focus on the motivation and engagement of your learners. Think of them as players on a journey from being a novice to becoming a master – this form of progression makes games entertaining. 

Gamification should not be overly easy either. You will need to present your students with a challenge that can teach them to find solutions to their problems in a game format.