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Top1. Introduction
As we advance into the new millennium, the encroachment of technology has given rise to the emergence of a very unique concept of integrated game-based learning activities – gamification. Its notion, anchored in wedding play with learning, strives to blend and shape natural human activity around education (Flores, 2015). In essence, it is the utilisation of game elements and game design techniques in non-game contexts (Zarzycka-Piskorz, 2016). In this frame, gamification is quickly emerging as an alternative or supplementary educative application (Giannakas et al., 2018). Its ‘play nature’ has resulted in game-based learning that does not only captivate learners’ attention, but has the potential to motivate them and subsequently promote knowledge retention as well – just as it permits learners the opportunity to be fully implicated in the learning process (Flores, 2015; NMC Horizon Report, 2014).
In his work on gamification and second language learning, Flores (2015, p. 42) stated the following:
The use of technology in education has become necessary to fortify the teaching and learning experience in the 21st century. Throughout the years we’ve seen dramatic changes and experienced transitions that have moved forward computer hardware and software, along with web-based technologies towards instruction. Most of all, we’ve experienced dramatic changes in the educational interests and the ways to teach different generations.
Studies conducted have demonstrated the viability of infusing appropriate learning approaches in gamification activities since they are likely to positively augment one’s learning achievement while simultaneously diminishing unnecessary cognitive load (Hwang et al., 2013). Additionally, Hwang et al. (ibid.) highlighted that the right learning strategies, apart from impacting a learner’s motivation positively, can potentially lead to increased persistence in learning (see also Zarzycka-Piskorz, 2016). On the other hand, if not carefully designed, gamification may lead to negative consequences (Hwang et al., 2013). Lending further support to the aforementioned, numerous researchers (Hwang & Wu, 2014; Tsai et al., 2012; Annetta et al., 2009; Rau et al., 2008) have underscored that motivation and interest levels, as well as learning achievements, can be further augmented via game-based activities blended with Internet tools, mobile environments, and popular communication services. A recent study by Wu (2018) on vocabulary learning via gamification has also recorded higher learning effectiveness. Additionally, there was positive feedback regarding learning motivation.
In light of the criticisms about Malaysia’s education system being unable to induce among students the motivation to learn, Ong et al. (2013) assessed the practicality and effectiveness of gamification within a tertiary education system in Malaysia and proposed that gamification can be practical and effective among when applied in Malaysia. The authors note, however, that while their research provides some grounds on factors affecting the effectiveness of gamified education, there remains the feasibility of conducting further research in this area.