Pros and Cons of Using Gamification in Tourism Education as a Motivational Tool

Abstract

Gamification is the use of game thinking, approaches and elements in a context different from the games. It is an important tool to know because it will almost certainly have a big role in the future of education. Using game mechanics develops motivation and learning in all circumstances. The main aim of gamification in education is to let students participate, contribute and cooperate with each other. The technique of gamification in education is to give students practical commands and feedback, and this is done via game mechanics added to online platforms, which will lead to achieve its aims and objectives. This study analyses pros and cons of using gamification in education as a motivational tool. The main data collection method involved a questionnaire conducted with a sample of academic professors; second questionnaire administered to students who applied gamification in their syllabus in order to investigate the effect of gamification on students' motivation in learning. The paper recommends that successful and sustainable gamification can convert students into fans and make learning a joy. In addition, a gamified application must offer a valuable experience; otherwise students are not going to use it.