Gamification as a teaching strategy to strengthen the learning of fractions among seventh-grade students in intermediate basic education.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62697/rmiie.v5i3.401Keywords:
Gamification, fractions, mathematics education, quasi-experiment, basic education, motivationAbstract
This study evaluated the effect of a gamification-based didactic strategy on fraction learning among seventh-grade students at a school in Jipijapa, Manabí, Ecuador. A quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design and a non-equivalent control group was adopted. Sixty-eight students participated, divided into an experimental group (n = 34), which received a four-session gamified intervention structured through dynamics, mechanics, and game components, and a control group (n = 34), which continued with usual instruction. Isomorphic objective tests validated by expert judgment (Cronbach’s α = .82) were administered. Results showed that the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group on the posttest, with improvements across conceptual, procedural, and problem-solving dimensions. A complementary perception questionnaire revealed favorable student appraisal of the strategy. It is concluded that gamification, when aligned with clear curricular objectives and a progressive instructional sequence, can strengthen the understanding and application of fractions at this educational level.
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