Gamification in eLearning

We define target KPIs: business KPIs (e.g., learner progress, started vs. completed challenges) and system effectiveness KPIs (e.g., learner adoption, engagement, satisfaction) of a to-be eLearning solution with gamification capabilities. Then, we consider what general eLearning features (learning content creation and management, eLearning administration), and specific gamification elements (e.g., mini-games, storytelling, points, leaderboards, badges, rewards) can bring most value in your case.

The main activities at this stage include:

Analysis of eLearning needs. We analyze eLearning needs a to-be solution should meet, including learning content creation and management, learning administration, and more.

Analysis of gamification goals and context. At this stage, we:

• Analyze key goals to be achieved with a gamified eLearning solution.
• Examine the existing learning processes, decide whether they should be redesigned before implementing a new solution.
• Define what learning processes (e.g., course delivery, knowledge assessment) can be effectively gamified and how.
• Decide upon the use of advanced technologies for gamification, for example, AI (e.g., chatbots) or XR (e.g., AR/VR/MR simulations).
• Make sure there is quality learning content that can be migrated to the new solution.

Target audience segmentation. To define an optimal feature set for a gamified eLearning solution, we segment target learners. We create personas (fictional characters that model actual learners) and categorize learners, for example, by using Bartle’s player types:

• Achievers (prefer gaining points, levels, and other awards that show their succeeding in a game).
• Explorers (prefer observing and examining a simulated environment in a game).
• Socializers (enjoy interacting with other players and AI during a game).
• Killers (gain the most enjoyment from competition with other players and AI).

For example, the recommended approach to Killers is encouraging peer-to-peer competition via leaderboards, while Achievers would most benefit from getting points, badges or other awards, e.g., for completing complex tasks.

User journey creation to visualize learners’ experience. To make gamification bring more value, we suggest adhering to the following principles when designing gamification features:

• Freedom to fail (having multiple attempts to succeed).
• Prompt feedback (getting rewards after each completed task or level).
• Progression (practicing the material learned on recent levels on further levels).
• Flexibility (achieving goals by various paths).

UI prototyping to get initial mockups of eLearning features, including gamification elements.

Prototype evaluation based on user testing and feedback in order to finalize design of eLearning functionality, including gamification features.

We define an optimal feature set and elicit technical requirements for the eLearning solution with gamification capabilities. We decide which type of eLearning solution will better suit a customer's learning needs (e.g., LMS, LXP, eLearning portal), what gamification features it should include, what integrations and customizations will be required. Then, we decide upon the implementation approach:

• Development of custom gamification elements for your eLearning solution. We recommend this option for customers who have an eLearning solution that lacks gamification capabilities, or its capabilities are not enough to meet their unique gamification needs (e.g., a complex system of calculation of achievement points, AR mini-games, etc.).
• Building an eLearning solution with gamification elements from scratch. We recommend this option for customers who need both specific learning management capabilities (e.g., complex workflows, advanced reporting capabilities, personalized learning paths, integrations with numerous systems and tools, etc.) and unique gamification features (e.g., multi-level system of badges, audio and VR simulations).
• Integration of an eLearning solution with commercial gamification platforms. These platforms may not offer API integration out of the box, so development may be needed.

After deciding upon the approach, we choose a suitable platform or tech stack and design an implementation plan for the eLearning solution, including time and budget estimation, target KPIs, and more.

ScienceSoft's tip: Many ready-to-use eLearning platforms like Moodle and WordPress have specialized plugins that you can buy and install without development efforts. Examples of such plugins include Badge Awarder and Level Up! for Moodle; LearnDash and Sensei for WordPress.

We perform comprehensive testing of the gamified eLearning solution, including functional, performance, integration, localization, and compatibility testing. To ensure the smooth and complete functioning, robust data sharing, stability and scalability, full compliance with usability requirements, and compatibility of the eLearning solution with its target environment (devices and OSs, browsers, hardware and network conditions), the testing activities should go in parallel with the solution’s development.

Before launching the solution, we conduct training for learners, course designers, instructors, and other users of eLearning software. Some time after the solution goes live, we analyze learner behavior reports generated by the solution and track the relevance of the gamified content and elements to update or remove certain content or elements, if needed.

ScienceSoft offers continuous monitoring and optimization of the eLearning solution to ensure its stable operation and improve user adoption. Also, gamification elements may become outdated quite soon, so we redesign or even replace them to keep learners engaged and motivated.