Gamification
Gamification refers to the integration of games or gaming mechanics into educational
experiences. This topic has gained considerable traction over the past decade as games have
proven to be effective learning tools, and beneficial in cognitive development and the fostering of
soft skills among students, such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and critical
thinking. The forms of games grow increasingly diverse and some of the most commonly used for
educational purposes include alternate reality games (ARG), massively multiplayer online games
(MMO), and global social awareness games. Most games that are currently used for learning across
a wide range of disciplines share similar qualities: they are goal-oriented; have strong social
components; and simulate some sort of real world experience that students find relevant to their
lives. As game-based learning garners more attention in academia, developers are responding
with games expressly designed to support immersive, experiential learning. Another major
component of this topic is the gamification of learning, in which aspects of games are
incorporated into learning exercises. For example, students may receive karma points or badges or
move up to a new level after performing well during an activity