Prof. Neviana Krasteva, DSc.,
Emil Georgiev, Assist. Prof.
Sofia University
Dr. Nora Madjar, Assoc. Prof.
University of Connecticut
https://doi.org/10.53656/ped2024-9s.05
Absract. The study aims to investigate the impact of a gamified informal learning environment on learner motivation and engagement and creating habits related to sustainable development. A quasi-experimental design on participants was used. The research concludes that gamification is an effective method to stimulate motivation, engagement and achieve better results in non-formal learning, especially in the field of sustainable development, where topics such as waste management have high societal importance but are also complex and have low potential to attract interest and drive action. It is recommended that educators use gamified models in informal learning and also design their programs in accordance with the theories and principles of gamification in education, which have an impact on motivation and engagement in learning.
Keywords: non-formal education; gamification; motivation; engagement; learners; Sustainable Development
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