Uninspired students, dull textbooks, healthcare routines that feel like chores – the struggle for sustained engagement in learning and wellness is a familiar one. This isn’t just a student problem; it’s a critical challenge for adult learning providers like higher education today. But what if the answer lies in play?
Enter gamification: the strategic application of game mechanics – like challenge, reward, social interaction, and progress – to make non-game contexts more absorbing and effective. It’s far more than just points and badges; it’s about leveraging core human motivators. While explored in many fields, gamification is proving truly transformative in education and healthcare (Shurui et al, 2020, Sailer & Homner, 2020).
In this episode of The Educated Guess, we’ll unpack the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of gamification across these vital sectors. We’ll look closely at how I’ve designed and implemented games to boost student motivation and retention, and how healthcare providers are using game mechanics to empower patients and improve treatment adherence. Stick around as we explore the research, compelling case studies, and the exciting future of integrating play into the serious business of learning and healing.
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The Educated Guess 