Gamification in education – practical solutions for educational courses

Abstract

Abstract Gamification can be defined as the use of game design elements in non-game contexts. The aim of this article is to present practical solutions for a gamified educational course. The solutions are based on mechanisms used in online games and on the results of empirical research on motivation. The first part of the article analyzes theories of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The second part discusses the motivational aspects of one of the most popular games (World of Warcraft). The final part presents a detailed sample project for a gamified educational course. It proposes that – among classical solutions – a monetary schedule of reinforcement as well as a number of features based on the natural needs to cooperate and compete be included.