Designing for Game-Based Learning: The Effective Integration of Technology to Support Learning

The use of games and game structures in educational contexts is growing in popularity. An increasing number of technologies have been developed to meet the needs of designing a course as a game. This article discussed the design process in game-based learning and reviewed the research on structuring a course with a focus on feedback, goals, and interaction. In addition, we presented the best practices and technologies to support the integration of badges and leaderboards into game-based learning. With the intentional and systematic design of game-based learning, instructors and designers will increase the impact of game attributes and elements on student achievement and motivation. Further investigation of game-based learning attributes and elements is needed to provide detailed knowledge on the compatibility with current technological tools.