Date of Award
Fall 2019
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education in Secondary Education
Department
Education
Committee Chair
Dr. Belinda Edwards
First Committee Member
Dr. Debra Coffey
Second Committee Member
Dr. Raynice Jean-Sigur
Third Committee Member
Dr. Mark Warner
Abstract
Gamification is a well-known concept that has been introduced to settings within the K-12 educational systems, post-secondary education and various business settings. However, a literature review reveals a lack of research to inform how teachers perceive the use of gamification within grades 6-8 classrooms as an instructional method to enhance student achievement. As a math teacher/researcher, it is important to investigate various factors or instructional methods that can potentially enhance student achievement. This qualitative study aims to examine how middle-grade mathematics teachers perceive gamification within their classroom setting. It will also explore the possible benefits and challenges of implementing gamification. An analysis determined that participants found benefits and challenges to implementation. Using gamification, as defined by Kapp (2016), three participants (from each grade level: 6th-8th) disclosed their prior knowledge about the concept, designed a game, discussed any benefits/challenges to implementation, and summarized best practices for gamification. The methodology included a framework that utilized constant comparative and thematic analysis. Overall, teachers described engagement as a major benefit to implementing gamification in a classroom setting. Future research should be conducted to assist in providing additional data pertaining to teacher perception of gamification in Grades 6-8 and its impact on student achievement.