eLearning | Glossary
eLearning Glossary – G, as in...
In our blog series eLearning Glossary, we regularly introduce key terms from the world of digital learning. Today we have reached the letter G. Three concepts are in focus: Game Based Learning, Gamification, and, of course, the Glossary itself. These terms are becoming increasingly relevant when it comes to modern learning concepts, learner motivation, and the didactic design of digital courses.
Psst… just a little side note: We choose our glossary terms based on the first letter of the original German words. So don’t be surprised if the English version features slightly different terms than the title might suggest.
Game Based Learning
Game Based Learning, often also referred to as Digital Game Based Learning, describes the process of learning through digital games. This can involve specially developed educational games, whose content and structure are deliberately designed to support knowledge transfer.
The playful framework is intended to increase motivation and, through active engagement, enable a deeper processing of the learning material. The decisive factor is the pedagogically meaningful integration of the game into the specific learning context. Only through its appropriate use can a lasting learning effect be achieved.
Related terms include Serious Games, Educational Games, Edutainment, or digital learning games. Educational games are particularly effective when they feature, for example, a motivating storyline, clear rules, and/or the possibility for learners to actively steer the course of the game.
Gamification
Gamification refers to the integration of individual, game-like elements into contexts that are not games in themselves. In eLearning, this typically means enriching learning content or materials with playful components such as leaderboards, tasks, or rewards. The aim is to enhance learner motivation, make the learning process more engaging, and foster intrinsic motivation.
The degree of gamification can vary greatly: from adding small rewards for individual tasks to entire courses designed around an overarching narrative with integrated challenges. However, it is sometimes argued that excessive use of gamification may appeal more to learners’ desire for rewards rather than making the learning content itself more interesting.
Glossary
A glossary is a collection of (specialist) terms and their definitions within a specific subject area. In eLearning, it can help learners to look up, classify, and understand central concepts in context. This not only consolidates comprehension but also improves orientation within complex content.