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Education

Gamification in Nigerian Primary Schools: A Promising Approach to Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A new study from the National Open University in Lagos, Nigeria, has found that gamification can have a significant positive impact on student engagement and learning outcomes in Nigerian primary schools. The research, led by Ngeri Anita Ikpat, involved a mixed-methods approach and surveyed 82 primary school teachers. The results revealed that gamification techniques, such as badges and points, were most frequently used in Maths and English classes, and were perceived by teachers to have a positive impact on academic achievement, student participation, and knowledge retention.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that most teachers (71%) incorporated gamification techniques weekly, with badges and points being the most frequently used elements.
  • Teachers perceived significant positive impacts on academic achievement, student participation, and knowledge retention, though challenges such as lack of technological resources and insufficient teacher training were highlighted.
  • Thematic analysis of qualitative data identified themes related to enhancing problem-solving abilities, catering to diverse learning styles, and fostering healthy competition.
  • The study concluded that gamification holds promise for transforming educational environments in Nigerian primary schools by promoting active engagement, motivation, and improved academic performance.
  • Despite challenges, the study found unanimous support for gamification, with teachers willing to undergo further professional development.

Statistics:

  • 71% of teachers incorporated gamification techniques weekly.
  • 64% of teachers used badges as a gamification element, followed by points (54%).
  • 52% of teachers reported using gamification in Maths classes, followed by English (46%).
  • The study found that gamification was most commonly applied in Maths, followed by English, Science, and other subjects.

Sources:

  • European Journal of Education, 2025;60(3) (Wiley-Blackwell - www.wiley.com/; European Journal of Education - onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1465-3435)
  • National Open University, Management Informat Syst, Lagos, Nigeria
  • NewsRx. Findings from National Open University in the Area of Education Described (Teacher Perceptions of Gamification's Influence On Student Engagement and Learning In Nigerian Primary Schools). Education Letter. September 24, 2025; p 167.

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