Literature review on gamification, the driving force behind engagement in studies

Abstract

This study presents a systematic literature review on the role of gamification in education and student motivation using the PRISMA methodology. Following the identification and screening phases, a Priority Score evaluation was conducted to ensure the relevance and quality of the selected studies. As a result, 42 publications were retained for detailed content analysis. The findings confirm that gamification remains a rapidly expanding and internationally significant research field, particularly in relation to educational innovation and motivational enhancement. The analysis revealed that the effectiveness of gamification depends not on the quantity of implemented game elements, but on their pedagogical relevance, quality, and alignment with learner characteristics. Concerning the first research question, the review identified several implementation barriers, including substantial time requirements, the need for technological and pedagogical expertise, and insufficient institutional IT infrastructure. Regarding the second research question, the most frequently applied gamification elements were the PBL triad (points, badges, leaderboards), tangible rewards, narratives, and educational escape rooms. Furthermore, emerging trends indicate increasing use of AI-driven adaptive systems that enable personalized learning experiences. Although the review was limited to two databases and predefined inclusion criteria, the rigorous selection process ensured a reliable and methodologically robust corpus. Future research should focus on longitudinal investigations, player typologies, and technology acceptance in educational environments.