It’s a Winning Condition! Examining the Impact of Meaningful Gamification with Preservice Teachers

Abstract

Meaningful gamification is the use of game elements and play to build engagement and help learners find personal connections in real-world settings. This study examined the impact of meaningful gamification design on preservice teachers’ perceptions, performance, and motivation levels within a gamified lesson planning unit. Participants were enrolled in a language arts teacher preparation course at a regional campus over five semesters. Results show meaningful gamification incorporating mastery learning and leveled curriculum created a learning condition where preservice teachers surpassed expectations and felt intrinsically motivated. Challenges to gamification included waiting on feedback and learning within a new format.