Gamification in MOOCs: How Game Elements Double Engagement

What is Gamification in MOOCs?

This article explains that gamification in MOOCs refers to integrating game mechanics like badges, leaderboards, and challenges into online courses. According to the research by Romero-Rodríguez et al., this method can significantly increase both motivation and completion rates.

Why Is It Important?

The main findings indicate that courses with gamified features achieved 14.43% completion, more than double the 6.16% from non-gamified ones. Additionally, student engagement with course activities rose from 13.25% to 28.03%, proving gamification’s effectiveness in sustaining attention and motivation.

How Was It Applied?

Research Design

A quasi-experimental method compared two platforms—MexicoX (gamified) and edX (non-gamified)—offering 12 MOOCs on energy sustainability. Key gamified elements included:

• Challenges with quiz-based rewards.

• Leaderboards showing performance rankings.

• Badges for correct answers (gold, silver, bronze).

Results by Platform

• MexicoX: 123,124 participants, 14.43% course completion.

• edX: Significantly lower completion and activity rates.

• Gamified courses saw sustained engagement across multiple activities, unlike the sharp drop in non-gamified versions.

Theoretical Framework

The study used the E-MIGA model (Integrated Theoretical Gamification Model in E-Learning) to evaluate effectiveness. Key dimensions included:

• Motivation for Learning

• Creating and Maintaining Expectations

• Typology of Actors

• User Control

Gamified MOOCs scored highly on motivation and reward systems but lacked personalization and narrative adaptability.

FAQs

Q: Does gamification guarantee better learning?

This article explains that gamification improves engagement and completion, but effectiveness depends on the quality and integration of game mechanics within the instructional design.

Q: What are the most effective game elements?

According to the study, badges, leaderboards, and real-time feedback had the greatest impact on engagement in energy-related MOOCs.

Q: Can gamification be applied to all MOOCs?

Yes, but success varies. Strategic design considering learners’ profiles, expectations, and course difficulty is essential for impact.