GAMIFICATION IN ASSESSMENT: IMPACT ON STUDENT MOTIVATION AND ENGAGEMENT

Abstract

Gamification in assessment has emerged as an innovative pedagogical approach to enhance student motivation and engagement by integrating game-like elements into learning and evaluation processes. This study explores the impact of gamified assessments on undergraduate students’ academic motivation, active participation, and overall learning experiences. Drawing on self-determination theory, the research investigates how features such as points, badges, leaderboards, and immediate feedback influence intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Findings from relevant literature and empirical studies suggest that gamification can reduce assessment anxiety, increase sustained engagement, and promote collaborative learning, provided that game mechanics are thoughtfully aligned with learning objectives. However, challenges such as over-reliance on extrinsic rewards and unequal accessibility highlight the need for balanced implementation. The study concludes that gamification, when designed strategically, holds significant potential for transforming assessment into a more interactive, motivating, and student-centered process.

Keywords: Gamification, Assessment, Student Motivation, Student Engagement, Learning Outcomes, Self-Determination Theory (SDT), Instructional Design