Gamification is the use of game thinking and mechanics in a non-game context to engage learners in the learning process (Pappas, 2021). It encourages social interaction and competition within the learning environment. Gamification is an important and effective method because it not only increases engagement, but also levels of motivation and goal achievement. A reward system, such as badges, can also be used to provide guidance and increase engagement (Pappas, 2021).

Incorporating gamification elements in a learning environment also helps in capturing attention. Students with learning disabilities and those who have difficulty focusing can greatly benefit from this. As a result, gamification helps create a positive experience with learning for students (Pappas, 2021).

In my personal learning experience, gamifications that peaked my interest and that I have used in previous courses include Kahoot and iClicker questions. Select the video located at the end of this blog post to watch a quick one-minute summary about Kahoot and it’s benefits in learning environments. iClicker questions are when the professor would present questions about a topic, and students are asked to choose an answer from the options provided. iClicker questions provide students with the opportunity to earn participation marks. I remember iClicker questions being a fun experience with classmates because it not only encouraged students to complete the assigned readings or assignments, but also to work collaboratively as a team to select the correct answers during lectures.

References

Kahoot! (2018, September 27). What is Kahoot!? [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XzfWHdDS9Q

Pappas, C. (2021, May 12). 23 Effective Uses Of Gamification In Learning: Part 1. eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/23-effective-uses-gamification-in-learning-part-1

Tech-Nation. (2010, December 3). Clicker System [Photograph]. Wiki Dot. http://56wrtg1150.wikidot.com/clickers

Interactive multimedia learning refers to online instructions that combine various forms of multimedia with activities to help learners apply their understanding and receive feedback (Biffi and Woodbury, 2019). Some examples of multimedia formats include images, videos, audio, and text. Studies have shown that interactive multimedia learning can help improve learning outcomes, problem-solving skills, and overall satisfaction rates (Biffi and Woodbury, 2019).

The cognitive theory of multimedia learning developed by Richard Mayer describes how learners process multimedia information and how the design of learning materials can be improved to achieve positive learning outcomes (Biffi and Woodbury, 2019). I agree with Mayer’s observation of how people learn better when pictures and words are combined. Interactive multimedia learning is a sense-making activity that enables learners to create a coherent mental representation from the material provided (Davis, 2020).

Interactive multimedia is important because it allows students to build their own knowledge structures and mental models (Davis, 2020). In addition, it entails presenting content in a way that encourages learners to engage in appropriate cognitive processing. Instructors can follow the cognitive theory of multimedia learning principles and the many examples of interactive multimedia in classrooms to significantly enhance student learning (Davis, 2020).

References

Biffi, E., and Woodbury, M. (2019). Interactive Multimedia Learning vs. Traditional Learning in Optometry: a Randomized Trial, B-scan Example | The Journal of Optometric Education. Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO). https://journal.opted.org/article/interactive-multimedia-learning-vs-traditional-learning-in-optometry-a-randomized-trial-b-scan-example/#:%7E:text=Interactive%20multimedia%20learning%20is%20defined,receive%20feedback%20on%20their%20understanding

Davis, G. (2020, January 31). Principles of Multimedia Learning. Center for Teaching and Learning | Wiley Education Services. https://ctl.wiley.com/principles-of-multimedia-learning/

Project Art Map. (2022). Importance and Need of Touch Screen Solution [Photograph]. Project Art Map. https://www.viewsonic.com/library/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Interactive-Touch-Screen-Displays-Screen-Record-Lessons-4-c.jpg