Efficacy of gamification-based smartphone application for weight loss in overweight and obese adolescents: study protocol for a phase II randomized controlled trial

Abstract

The benefits of the proposed study include mid-term effects in weight reduction for overweight and obese adolescents. The current proposal will contribute to fill a gap in the literature on the mid-term effects of gamification-based interventions to control weight in adolescents. This trial is a well-designed RCT that is in line with the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement.

Students’ Satisfaction with Interactive Forms of Training with Elements of Gamification

“…Important factors in the formation of favorable conditions for the successful implementation of higher education programs are as follows: timely improvement of the education system [5], successful implementation of personnel policy that would satisfy employees and students of HEIs [6,7], improvement of personnel training [8], conflict-free interpersonal relationships [9], teachers' motivation [10], etc. In recent decades, the elements of gamification have been widely used in psychology [11,12], education [13,14], business [15], marketing, social networks [16], health care service [17,18] and in other areas. In marketing practice, gamification is used to influence the behavior of consumers and increase the interest of buyers (consumers) in a particular product or service [19].…”

Assessing Ethoshunt as a Gamification-Based Mobile App in Ethics Education: Pilot Mixed-Methods Study

“…Gamification is an application that integrates both game mechanics and game dynamics with the support of a virtual learning environment, offering various benefits to humans [ 12 ]. Previous studies have investigated the development and usage of gamification across disciplines.…”

“…Gamification researchers have also explored personality types that can predict players’ preferences for game elements and mechanics [ 7 ], as well as energy-related behaviors that are necessary to engage residential customers in energy application enabled by smart meters [ 16 ]. Interestingly, many researchers have designed gamification-based applications to capture consumers’ fun and “gameful” experiences [ 9 ] and to observe weight loss in overweight and obese adolescents, which eventually improves their health conditions [ 12 ]. On the other hand, Zhang et al [ 17 ] used gamification for cognitive bias modification.…”

“…Gamification allows students to experience a feeling of energized focus, enjoy the process of classroom activity, and get involved in the learning process [ 2 ]. In addition, gamification can be utilized as a motivational tool [ 1 , 8 , 27 ], promotes a flexible learning environment, and provides challenges to high-ability students [ 12 ]. In addition, students can maintain positive attitudes toward courses integrated with gamification, and gamification can influence students’ learning and achievements [ 28 ].…”

“…For the motivation aspect, gamification promotes behavioral changes. Timpel et al [ 12 ] mentioned that motivation is the heart of gamification. Gamification works best to boost motivation through engagement, which can make the most challenging and tedious tasks enjoyable [ 27 ].…”