THE EFFECTS OF GAMIFICATION ON STUDENT MOTIVATION AND ENGAGEMENT IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS

<doi>10.24250/jpe/SI/2026/MGN/SIR/</doi>

Abstract

This study explored whether the use of gamification
strategies in Geography lessons could improve students’
motivation, engagement and academic performance
compared to traditional teaching methods. The research
involved 49 high school students from a prestigious school in
Pitesti, Arges County, Romania, who were divided into an
experimental group and a control group. The experimental
group participated in a gamified learning experience based
on a mission-oriented educational scenario that
incorporated game elements such as challenges, rewards
and collaborative tasks. In contrast, the control group
studied the same curriculum through traditional
instructional methods supported by digital presentations and
visual learning materials. Data were collected using a
mixed-methods approach that included a motivational
questionnaire, an observation grid assessing students’
classroom participation and engagement, and an academic
achievement test administered at the end of the intervention.
Statistical analyses were conducted to compare the outcomes
of the two groups and determine the effectiveness of the
instructional approaches. The findings indicate that
gamification had a positive and statistically significant
impact on students’ motivation, classroom participation and
academic achievement. Students exposed to the gamified
learning environment demonstrated higher levels of interest,
active involvement and persistence during lessons, while also obtaining better academic results than their peers in the
control group. These outcomes suggest that integrating
game-based elements into Geography instruction can foster
a more interactive, enjoyable and student-centered learning
experience.