Gamificação como estratégia motivacional na disciplina de laboratório de programação

Abstract

Programming is an essential component present in various subjects of computing-related courses, making it fundamental throughout the undergraduate program. Courses dedicated exclusively to programming require high-quality teaching to ensure mastery of the content. One example is the Programming Laboratory course, conducted in the early semesters of Software Engineering and Computer Science programs. Thus, this course holds great importance in the overall education of students, as it provides a solid foundation of knowledge that will be applied in future activities. However, programming education can become difficult and unproductive, potentially resulting in low learning outcomes, leading to challenges in subsequent subjects, frustrations due to lack of development, demotivation, and in some cases, even academic dropout. In this sense, it is necessary to implement teaching practices that facilitate student learning. Therefore, this work aims to apply Gamification in the Programming Laboratory course as a pedagogical tool in the teaching and learning process of programming, transforming the classroom into a motivating environment. This methodology can promote increased motivation and engagement, turning the classroom into a more dynamic and encouraging space. The methodology was implemented through a thematic badge chart based on the Super Mario universe, with different badges representing specific achievements related to the final project development. Students were challenged to complete the chart throughout the project, which encouraged active participation and focus on submissions, resulting in greater student engagement and motivation, improved academic performance, and a more positive learning experience and consolidation of the content.