Level Up Your Learning with Gamification Using Rapid Authoring Tools

Introduction

In the context of eLearning, the terms game-based learning and gamification are often used interchangeably, but they are quite different.

Game-based learning refers to an active learning experience within a game framework. While gamification is a process of incorporating game elements into the training.

“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” – Diane Ackerman

Game elements play an important role in the person’s comprehension and understanding levels. Games release feel-good hormones, which not only boost our moods but also maintain high-interest levels during the eLearning course. They instill a sense of achievement, which is an antidote to monotony, boredom, and disinterest. So, what are these gamified elements in eLearning authoring tools? 

Gamified Elements in eLearning Authoring Tools

Leaderboards, Points, and Badges

Points, badges, and leaderboards transform learning into a challenge and a rewarding experience. The leaderboards track the progress of each learner and can be customized. Points and badges are displayed on leaderboards, firing up a spirit of friendly competition. Points can be given, and badges can be unlocked after every quiz, level, at the end of the course, or any other milestone. It induces a sense of accomplishment.

Interestingly, points can be given for participating and accessing different learning assets in the learning paths.

Branching Scenarios

Real-world decision-making scenarios can be built in many authoring tools, where the choices made by the learners not only win them awards but also empower them through the understanding of why something is correct or incorrect. It can be highly interactive, providing a personalized learning environment. Branching scenarios can be created as video overlays too.

Gamified Templates

Most authoring tools have game-based learning templates for content as well as assessments. These prebuilt eLearning templates calculate the scores in the backend and have a result page to display the scores. Authors need to simply add questions and options. The template will take care of the rest of it.

Interactive overlays

Many authoring tools allow authors to add quizzes, polls, and hotspots to existing images, videos, or documents. Points can be added for quizzes and/or participation. This allows learners to participate actively and stay engaged.

Benefits of Gamified Rapid Authoring Tool

Can rapid authoring tools have gamified elements? Yes, they can, and here are the benefits one can get by using them.