Gamification is seen by more and more experts as a new top trend in the training world. What are the benefits? Let’s find out!

We have spoken previously about gamification and that it is rising as a trend. According to Ruby Spencer, who is the director of global curriculum development at PulseLearning, gamification is a “HOT trend for 2016” and she gives several good reasons why.

But first, what is gamification? To put it simply, it is the addition of a gaming element to the training and the lessons. For example points awarded for the completion of certain tasks, or Achievements for completing tasks in a certain way and so on. Gamification is meant to improve the performance of the employees who attend the training. It is also a way to teach complex information with a more engaging and simplified approach.

While specific training methods always depend on the trainer and the audience, down to each individual, gamification is currently rising as a top favorite amongst everyone involved. According to Ruby, this approach is preferred by Generation-Y, who grew up with computers, gaming and social media. They have the needed tech skills to use gaming methods in the training easier and recognize them as something pleasant.

Also, trainings can sometimes be seen as challenging or intimidating by some employees. Having a more playful approach is a good way to relieve stress, Spencer says. It is also a good way to encourage teamwork and camaraderie, especially for the tougher challenges. “For example, e-learning training on customer service excellence could be delivered and then aligned with team goals around sales conversions and reducing customer complaints. Results and successes could be tracked using a leader board and appropriate rewards offered”, she writes.

Gamification is also good for helping employees get through the most important information easier. “Incorporating gamification into e-learning products can raise engagement to ensure key learning messages are noticed and prioritized as important and committed to memory”, Spencer says.

Adding such elements allows employees to take initiative, feel more motivated to complete the training and gives control to them. All of this should lead to increased understanding of the topic, more facts that have been learned and new skills should be better developed. This means increased return of investment and happier employees, which is always great.

Image credit: Flickr (CC) / Luigi Mengato