Student Engagement in Gamified Online Discussions

• In Event: 53.068 - Gamification and Game-Based Learning

Abstract

This article presents a study of using the gamification approach in online discussions. A gamified online discussion tool, gEchoLu, was designed and implemented. The goal of the current study was to investigate the effects of game elements implemented in gEchoLu on student engagement. Holistically, gEchoLu had positive effects on student engagement. Particularly, the badges, the like feature, the progress bars, and the feature of posting with avatars were found that can promote student engagement in online discussions. However, caution is warranted when grade is involved in the badge design. Moreover, the virtual gifts were reported as the least favored game element, because students see no value in them. Implications were discussed at the end of the paper.

Authors

• Lu Ding, University of Georgia - Athens

• Michael Orey, University of Georgia - Athens

• Erkan ER, University of Valladolid