The Design and Evaluation of an E-learning Course based on Active Learning and Meaningful Gamification Strategies

Abstract

In this project, we explored the use of Active Learning and Meaningful Gamification strategies in two studies (pilot study and main study). In the pilot study, one module of an e-learning course built upon active learning techniques and meaningful gamification was launched on Moodle, involving two classes. In one class, the design mainly employed active learning strategies (ALS). In the other class, the design employed both active learning strategies (ALS) and gamification strategies (GS). The use of ALS + GS produced greater student contribution in the discussion forums, and had a positive effect on motivating students to engage with more difficult tasks than ALS alone. Moreover, the quality of artifacts produced by participants in the ALS + GS class was higher than those in the ALS class. In the main study, we compared three types of course designs, namely original course (control group), course with ALS, and course with ALS + GS. Students in the ALS + GS class contributed more postings in the discussion forums than ALS and control classes. In addition, ALS + GS participants made more attempts on self-check quizzes each week. More students in the ALS + GS class completed the pre-tasks on or before recommended completion time. Taken together, the findings of the pilot and main studies suggested that when active learning strategies and gamification strategies are both implemented, learners are more cognitively and behaviorally engaged. Meanwhile, their motivation level is also higher than in non-gamified environment.

Deliverables