Game Based Learning is the use of existing games for an activity or series of activities within the broader scope of the learning process. For example, having students play the board game Settlers of Catan to teach the concepts of supply and demand. Game based learning is using games to teach.
Gamification is the use of game mechanics and game-style thinking in other contexts and processes. It’s the process of making learning, for example, into a game by using:
- goals or quests - a sense of purpose
- barriers or rules - inspiring creative solutions
- immediate feedback and incentives (e.g. progress meter, levels, badges, virtual currency, points) - satisfaction by participants seeing an impact of their efforts
- voluntary participation - so players accept the above elements
This is a process that takes place over a sustained period of time, such as a unit, a course, or a year. Gamified learning is using game design principles to create a learning environment.
Gamification may include some game based learning activities, perhaps as some of the levels or missions, but doesn’t require them.
Some of the ideas for these definitions came from:
http://treetoptraining.wordpress.com/http://www.edutopia.org/blog/gamification-game-based-learning-unit-andrew-miller
