ABSTRACT VIEW
INCENTIVIZING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT THROUGH GAMIFICATION: A STUDY IN CIVIL ENGINEERING EDUCATION
A. Bediwy1, A. Issa2, M. Abdelsamie1, A.R. Masoud1
1 United Arab Emirates University (UNITED ARAB EMIRATES)
2 Lakehead University (CANADA)
Engineering education is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by advancements in technology, the need for interdisciplinary skills, and the growing demand for engineers who excel in both technical and behavioral competencies like teamwork, critical thinking, and communication. As global challenges become more complex, engineering programs must better prepare students for a connected, fast-evolving world. This study investigates the use of gamification as a teaching tool to enhance student engagement and participation in engineering education. Gamification, which incorporates game elements like points, challenges, and rewards into traditional learning, was implemented across multiple Civil Engineering courses. Tailored to each course, the gamification strategy included a structured point system that incentivized students through rewards for completing tasks, performing well on assignments, and attending class. This bonus point system aimed to improve engagement, participation, and academic achievement, with class sizes ranging from 17 to 71 students. Initial feedback showed that gamification increased students' motivation and enthusiasm for the material. The use of game mechanics aligned with academic goals fostering a collaborative and interactive learning environment. A hierarchical rewards system, offering bronze, silver, and gold medals based on point totals, gave students clear incentives to dive deeper into course content. Beyond boosting engagement, gamification helped students bridge theoretical knowledge and practical application, reinforcing teamwork and problem-solving skills essential to their careers. A "grand prize" of a 3% course grade boost for those who met point and attendance thresholds further motivated sustained participation. This paper provides a detailed analysis of how gamification impacts student engagement and learning outcomes in engineering, offering evidence that game-based learning can effectively support an active, student-centered educational approach.

Keywords: Engineering Education, Gamification, Student Engagement, Bonus Games.

Event: EDULEARN25
Session: Game-Based Learning
Session time: Tuesday, 1st of July from 15:00 to 16:45
Session type: ORAL