History of Gamification in Education


 

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History of Gamification

 

     Gamification refers to the application of game dynamics, mechanics, and frameworks into non-game settings. The concept of Gamification has been around for more than 100 years. However, with recent improvements and advancements in technology as well as increased interest in Constructivist approaches to education, gamification has recently become an interest to educators. Take a look at the list below that outlines the history of Gamification with some significant contributions dating back to 1896 (Smith, 2014).

 

Nearly 20 years before the Model T was introduced, marketers were experimenting with ways to inspire loyalty in their customers. (Dunwill, 2016). Over 100 years later, brands are still searching for methods to positively reinforce buying behavior and engagement, with gamification producing unprecedented results. Gamification draws from an eclectic range of sources, but this timeline specifically explores the relationship between loyalty, games and fun. (Smith, 2014) 

 

      (Smith, 2014)  


Gamification in Education took off in the 1980's with the emergence of the Children's software industry and educational games.  The graphic below shows educational elements of gaming and a brief history of gamification in education.  


Gamification

Created by Knewton and Column Five Media

 

Dunwill, E. (2016, Feb 23) Beyond K -12: 8 Reasons Why Higher Education Should Adopt Gamification. Emerging EdTech. Retrieved on July 1, 2017 from http://www.edtechupdate.com/gamification/?open-article-id=4700926&article-title=beyond-k-12--8-reasons-why-higher-education-should-adopt-gamification&blog-domain=emergingedtech.com&blog-title=emergingedtech

 

Knewton Infographics. (2010) EdTech Update. Graphic Retrieved on July 1, 2017 from: http://www.edtechupdate.com/gamification/?open-article-id=3415599&article-title=gamification-in-the-classroom&blog-domain=isaacpineda.com&blog-title=kairos-edtech

 

Smith, F. (July 11, 2014) A Brief History of Gamification. EdTechMagazine. Retrieved from: https://edtechmagazine.com/higher/article/2014/07/brief-history-gamification-infographic

 

Gamification Image, no attribution needed, Retrieved from https://pixabay.com/en/gamification-progression-coins-1474879/