70% Boost in Learner Interaction and Engagement
How do you efficiently and effectively educate adults on basic financial literacy? This was the question posed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), and the hypothesis was - gamify the online course! Dr. Larysa and team implemented game-based learning (GBL) tactics for an introductory financial literacy course comprised of 254 adult learners and compared interactions, and performance between two cohorts to see the impact of GBL. Cohort one went through the traditional course design, syllabus, lectures, etc., while cohort 2 learned the same material, but went through the GBL version of the course, which incorporated levels, incentives and a gamified design.
The results were shockingly clear: students in GBL courses interacted 70% more (measured by clicks) when compared to the traditional cohort. Demonstrating that game-based mechanics, such as adaptive content release and point-earning systems, enhance students level of effort and motivation to perform in the classroom.
Engagement = Interaction
Engagement is the cornerstone of effective learning, as this leads to motivation, action and achievement. The goals of any learning initiative. GBL leverages the intrinsic motivation that games naturally evoke, fostering a learning environment where students are not just passive recipients of information, but active participants that get rewarded throughout their educational journey. The study revealed that GBL's interactive nature leads to a higher number of content interactions, indicating a more engaged and motivated student body.
GBL transforms the learning experience from a monotonous task to an exciting adventure. By gamifying the online course, the study showcased how goal-oriented instruction and game-like attributes synergize to reinforce learning outcomes. This approach is particularly effective in courses such as financial literacy where content can be dry and boring, yet simulations and game-based strategies have proven to surpass traditional methods in building knowledge.
For educators and institutions ready to elevate their teaching methods, the message is clear: incorporating game-based learning is not just a wise choice, it's an essential strategy for the modern classroom.
The case for GBL is strong, and the time to act is now.
Academic Performance: The Proof is in Persistence
The true measure of educational success lies in academic performance, and GBL has shown to make a significant difference. The study's use of the Instructional Materials Motivational Survey (IMMS) coupled with user data provided a robust evaluation of student motivation and effort persistence. The findings? Students in GBL environments exhibit continued effort towards their goals, a key indicator of improved academic performance. Read the full publication in the International Journal of Game-Based Learning.
Applying to ANY Remote Setting
The implications of this study are clear: GBL is not just a fleeting trend but a powerful educational tool that can revolutionize learning. However, implementing GBL one course at a time is both cumbersome and challenging to scale. How can scale the benefits of GBL quickly? This has been our focus at Townhall, and why we've designed our Zoom app solution. We've incorporated over 15 years of GBL research into Townhall to effectively gamifying any large remote meeting. Thus, any virtual course, town hall meeting, or training session can benefit from improved engagement, motivation, focus and interaction. By integrating game mechanics at the platform level, ANY educator can create a more dynamic, engaging, and effective learning environment that not only captures students' attention, but also sustains it.
GBL is an educational innovation that cannot be ignored. It's time to embrace the future of education and unlock the full potential of our students. Let's make learning an experience that is as rewarding as it is educational.
As demand for instructor led virtual learning continues to climb, educational institutions must adapt delivery and teaching methods to not only effectively engage current students, but also recruit the next generation of learners. This powerful case study demonstrates how Townhall can help boost engagement and achievement from day 1!
Townhall Powers Up Learner Performance
Townhall leverages research-based gamification to fuel demand for your training sessions and energize your Zoom learners to sign up, show up, and speak up.
Built on over $7M in research funding from elite organizations such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), and the US Army, Townhall's research-based approach and design has been validated in over 30 publications in peer-reviewed journals and books.
We love helping educators and trainers rapidly boost learner engagement and achievement. Please connect for a FREE consultation!
Resources:
- Full publication in the International Journal of Game-Based Learning
- Research
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