Gamification Is Redefining the Future of eLearning
In recent years, the concept of EdTech has transformed completely. From interactive learning based on animations to applications, students and enthusiasts from all age groups have experienced the benefits offered. However, another interesting transition that has brought a very positive change to the EdTech industry is the introduction of gamification.
From the time that gamification has become a buzzword for the industry, a study from BlueWeave Consulting has found that the global education gamification market was worth USD 697.26 million in 2020 and is further projected to reach USD 4144.97 million by 2027. But still, EdTech start-ups and existing brands are looking for some fresh perspective on how gamification could redefine the future of learning.
The pandemic acted as a catalyst for the concept of gamification, as it propelled all educational institutions to foster hybrid learning environments. The need for improving engagements made educators especially look to gamified learning as an advanced approach to eLearning. The whole idea of gamification in EdTech was introducing the video game kind of layout or interface to encourage interactive learning.
In this article, we will try to highlight how gamification could bring necessary innovations to the EdTech industry while also highlighting the several benefits and scenarios surrounding the use of gamification in remote learning.
Unraveling Gamified Learning in EdTech
With the objective to continue offering learning during the pandemic, innovation took the front seat when it came to the education industry. From advanced learning modules that help students explore their interests in programming languages to free subscription models, things took a leap. A similar kind of interest in innovation was observed at the parents’ end, with parents who were more ready than ever to invest in technology that could encourage learning. These included the use of DIY kits or STEM toys that offer digital content to cut through the constraints and deadlines of learning with standard practices. Besides, the introduction of personalization with AI triggered innovations such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR).
Innovative Learning
Gamification is the future of innovation in the EdTech industry. The introduction of AI, Big Data, cloud technology, IoT, mobile learning, and VR all have the potential to enrich gamified learning. This gives encouragement to game-based learning methods at schools, to keep students interested in the learning process. Moreover, gamification increases the chances of the practical application of educational concepts, as it gives students a chance to use their imagination. With a more detailed introduction to real-world applications of subject matter, gamified practices would facilitate teachers to coach students. More importantly, gamification could help market EdTech solutions while gaining insights into the effectiveness of applications on immersive technologies.
Comfort And Interactivity
With time, the idea of learning is no longer restricted to students. From training professionals to capturing young minds, employing gamified elements in applications could help make learning a more compelling task. Such elements usually include quizzes, puzzles, scenario-based questions, or graphical representations of the subjects that the students need to learn. Besides, it is important that EdTech companies help teachers and coaches to create easy-to-follow learning spaces. To help create a pleasing learning experience for students, the instructors must be provided with thorough guidance on balancing fun elements with theoretical learning, which is quite an easy task to pursue with gamification.
Engagement And Competition
When it comes to industry experts and even the people who have not yet used gamification in learning, there is a belief that gamified learning has all that is required to increase student engagement. However, gamification also poses a continuous threat of competition to all those learning platforms that refrain from using the concept or believe in the value-generating potential of legacy practices. This competition factor is even reflected in students when some particular students are performing better using gamification techniques than by using methods associated with other trends in online education. Nevertheless, gamification has the potential to create a fun, engaging, and competitive environment for the students. For instance, the use of technology like VR headsets in applications could help create a hands-on learning experience, creating a more holistic and practical learning environment.