The Effects of Gamification on Students' Gameful Experience According to Their Age: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Gamification is a prominent pedagogical tool to boost language learners' engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. However, its effectiveness varies depending on contextual factors and individual characteristics, such as age. Understanding these dynamics is critical for designing inclusive and adaptive gamified learning environments. To address this issue, we conducted a quasi-experimental study with 299 participants to examine the effects of gamification on language learners' gameful experiences (i.e., accomplishment, challenge, competition, guidance, immersion, playfulness, and social experience) according to their age. Participants interacted with the gamified platform Duolingo and completed the GAMEFULQUEST questionnaire. Data processing used Structural Equation Modeling to explore the effects of gamification on language learners' gameful experiences. Results revealed that older participants had the highest sense of accomplishment and immersion during the system usage. These findings contribute to language education and gamified education, providing insights into the interplay between gamification and language learners' gameful experiences.