Benefits and Disadvantages of Utilizing Gamified Learning in Higher Education

Abstract

The chapter presents the results of a systematic analysis of published works on utilizing gamification in higher education. The analysis sheds light on the positives and challenges of using gamification in education. The author investigated the studies that tackled the use of gamified learning in various educational environments and contexts. Although the literature has focused on the general use of gamification, previous research did not highlight other positives and negatives that may result from the use of gamified learning in the classroom. In addition, there was minimal focus on the role of gameplay elements in promoting and/or hindering the use of gamification in higher education. Results of this systematic analysis showed that the use of gamification in higher education is associated with three main elements: pedagogy, design, and behavior. Benefits and challenges of utilizing gamification in the classroom are discussed in light of those elements.