If you’re unclear about the foundational principle behind this topic, we invite you to first check out “The Gamification of Learning” and then come back here.

As you know, incorporating play into an experience helps to solidify it, which is why applying this concept to training enables a natural assimilation of new knowledge and skills. However, certain pitfalls can disrupt this mechanism.

Superficial Learning

There’s a risk that learners may become more motivated by earning points than actually focusing on the content. However, this issue is relative, as the brain will naturally retain information if exposed to it at least seven times. This is where well-constructed storytelling can make all the difference.

A Discouraging Approach

For learners who don’t have a competitive mindset or for whom a game level is too difficult, gamification can become counterproductive. In your preliminary analysis, be sure to note any such indications about your target audience. Also, consider using multi-level paths based on initial results to ensure the training accounts for potential disparities within your group.

Cognitive Fatigue

Just as the graphics and content must be smooth and easy to understand, so must the game mechanics. For example, if you decide to include too many unrelated game activities, the learner must constantly spend time learning new rules, which can detract from the enjoyment of playing and disrupt the natural learning cycle.

Too Much Complexity

Your training platform should be easy to navigate, and the rules should be understandable to all staff members involved. It’s important to always put user experience first, and to remember that while you’re responsible for creating the online training, you won’t be the one using it. Our multidisciplinary team continually ensures that your gamification is natural and understandable, and that the complexity level suits your target audience.

In Summary

gamification requires clear educational objectives to avoid game mechanics that don’t support the purpose of your online training. As you’ve gathered, a learning path can fully gamified as long as it helps achieve its learning objectives and aligns with the profiles of your learners.

So, get ready, set, go play!