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Can gamification be used to motivate students who have traditionally struggled in school?

Bynum Kayes

Gamification has become an increasingly popular way to motivate students who traditionally struggle in school. By incorporating game-like elements into the learning experience, educators can help engage students who may otherwise feel disinterested or disengaged in traditional classrooms.

One of the key advantages of gamification is that it offers a more dynamic and interactive learning experience. This can be particularly beneficial for students who have difficulty staying focused for extended periods of time or who struggle to absorb information through traditional means. By incorporating elements like rewards, challenges, and competition, educators can help motivate these students to stay engaged and invested in the learning process.

Another advantage of gamification is that it can help students develop important skills beyond just academic knowledge. For example, games can help students build problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, which are all essential for success in school and beyond. By framing these skills as part of the gaming experience, educators can help students develop a more positive attitude towards learning and build their confidence in their own abilities.

However, it's important to note that gamification isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for motivating struggling students. Some students may not respond well to gaming elements, or may find them overwhelming or disorienting. Additionally, it's important for educators to strike a balance between incorporating game-like elements into the learning experience and maintaining a focus on academic content and objectives.

To make gamification effective for struggling students, educators need to carefully consider the specific needs and challenges of their students. For example, if a student struggles with attention or focus, educators may want to consider incorporating more frequent rewards or simpler challenges to help keep them engaged. Alternatively, if a student is particularly competitive, educators might consider incorporating more team-based challenges or "leaderboards" to help motivate them.

Ultimately, the goal of gamification for struggling students is to help them see learning as a fun, engaging, and rewarding experience. By incorporating game-like elements in a thoughtful and deliberate way, educators can help motivate these students to stay invested in the learning process and build the skills they need to succeed.