| Description |
The purpose of this project was to look at multiple learning theories and game design theories in order to determine if these two different sets of theories could be combined in order to create effective training materials. It also explores how this process could happen, what that would look like and to determine if the gamification of training materials is an effective and valid method of teaching. This study is from a constructivist viewpoint, and draws upon experiential learning theories. The game created for the study blends the Flow theory, narrative learning theories and the Zone of Proximal Development theory to create a gamified training. The research was conducted at a local company, HireVu, a Software as a Service (SaaS) company that delivers Human Resource technology, in the form of a digital interviewing platform. The participants were the support team. The individual's knowledge was measured before the gamified training, after, and then again one month later. The results showed that the training was highly effective, boasting an 80% retention rate for the knowledge gained. The participants enjoyed the training, and did not want to leave at the end. The research shows that gamification is a valid form of training. There is more research needed in field, for example how could other learning perspectives and theories be applied to games, and what games work best with various content and industries? |
