Gamification of an asynchronous HTML5-related competency-based guided learning system

Abstract

Practice e-learning systems with traditional asynchronous drills are the most common assisted-learning tools for cognitive study, and they are often employed in instructional environments. Such systems provide learners with immediate feedback that enables them to develop cognitive abilities through constant learning. In this study, a novel, asynchronous HTML5-related gamified competency-based guided learning (CBGL) system was designed. The CBGL algorithm was embedded in the system to provide personalization for enhanced learning effects. This study used the core drivers of the Octalysis gamification framework to design gamified mechanisms that ameliorated the long and tedious CBGL processes. This study used the system satisfaction test to survey the flow experience of the participants and logged their learning behaviors for data mining. The results of system satisfaction analysis revealed that the system gamification generated a favorable flow experience among participants; they actively used the system to study and felt that the guided learning process was engaging. Results of the data mining analysis also revealed that the percentage of learners who completed the CBGL process rose from 58.3% to 79.2%. Therefore, the gamified mechanism helped participants overcome the boring and lengthy learning processes of the CBGL system.