Game-Based Learning supported by FeedbackFruits

Spark deeper engagement and tap into intrinsic motivation by weaving game elements—challenges, rewards, and play—into the learning process.
Author: Natalie Berkman, Quest Education Group
Natalie Berkman, Ph.D. is a higher education professional currently serving as the National Academic Director at Quest Education Group. In her current role, she pilots a unique project-based and active learning strategy, training future video game and cybersecurity professionals.
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What is game-based learning?

Game-Based Learning uses the principles of games—such as rules, competition, and feedback loops—to create engaging, playful learning experiences. Games are masters at teaching players how to accomplish tasks, so Game-Based Learning taps into learners’ innate desire for exploration and mastery, transforming educational content into interactive challenges. As a result, students gain practical skills and deeper understanding while enjoying the motivating power of play.

Why game-based learning?

By merging entertainment with educational objectives, Game-Based Learning immerses students in hands-on problem-solving that feels natural and rewarding. Research shows that well-designed educational games can boost motivation, foster collaboration, and improve learning outcomes across age groups and disciplines. Students often persist longer in tasks, actively seek feedback, and develop critical thinking skills in the process.

8–12% higher test scores

Students in competitive game-based learning environments tend to score higher on assessments, with the strongest effects in STEM subjects.
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Chen, C., Shih, C., & Law, V. (2020)
The Effects of Competition in Digital Game-Based Learning: A Meta-Analysis.

Strengthened engagement by 18%

Studies show that students score higher on tests with digital badges. Public badges can even increase engagement by up to 18%.
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Law, V., Jimenez, M. J., Kittinger, L., & Lopez, B. (2024
A Meta-Analysis of Digital Badges in Learning Environments in Educational Settings.

Higher learning gains with gamification

Increase your students’ learning gains by gamifying your classroom, which can even lead to increases in engagement by 15%.
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Sailer, M., & Homner, L. (2020)
The Gamification of Learning: A Meta-Analysis.
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How does FeedbackFruits support game-based learning?

With FeedbackFruits, educators can embed interactive game elements—such as points for timely submissions through its configurable grading capabilities—directly into course tasks, fostering a sense of progress and achievement. Tools like Interactive Document and or Interactive Presentation enable engaging challenges: students can annotate game scenarios, discuss strategies, and give each other feedback.

Instructors can track real-time analytics on student participation, ensuring that everyone remains active in the learning ‘game.’ By seamlessly integrating these features into your LMS, you minimize setup complexity while maximizing student motivation.

Get started with game-based learning pedagogy using our pre-made learning templates

These templates—designed by experienced educators—offer proven structures for implementing game-based learning pedagogy. Simply select a template, customize it, and launch engaging activities in minutes.
Browse all templates
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Developing critical writing skills through peer review and reflection

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Building your own team structure with interactive document

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Collaborative audio task: the power of emphasis

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Group member evaluation and reflection

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Exploring active and technology enhanced learning through interactive document

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Real-time group member evaluation during group presentation

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Self-assessment of values, learning, and skills for future career decisions

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Low (<10 min)

Reading and annotating sample place narratives

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Analyzing leadership and emotional intelligence through social annotation

Knowledge uptake
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Case study analysis and peer feedback

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Peer review for policy analysis and evaluation

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Low (<10 min)

Reflection on learning objectives with the SOLO rubric

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Analyzing a topic through interactive video

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Low (<10 min)

Reflecting on intersectionality with interactive document

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Providing feedback on learning portfolio presentations

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Group peer feedback: Let’s keep it fair & fun!

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Gamified team based concept defence

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Gamified peer feedback: Leveling up through constructive critique

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

CBE skill review with a Mastery Check rubric

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Low (<10 min)

Deepening critical understanding through discussion

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Gamified quiz for competition, debate, and learning

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Low (<10 min)

Cultural reflection discussion

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Social-emotional learning based Peer Review

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Strengthening research quality through structured peer feedback

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Low (<10 min)

Unpacking misconceptions through discussions

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Low (<10 min)

Exploring intersectionality through interactive Video

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Low (<10 min)

Self-reflection: Connecting learning to personal growth

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Low (<10 min)

Co-designing the course: Interactive syllabus feedback

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Low (<10 min)

Designing personalized learning through student choice

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Low (<10 min)

Reflection on socratic discussions with guided rubric

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Reflection and peer exchange around an ethical dilemma

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Using critical discussion to build upon arguments

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Interactive case study discussion around an ethical dilemma

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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Showcasing evolving perspectives through revision, peer critique, and reflection

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Transformative learning: Group discussion and self-reflection

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Challenging cognitive biases through reflection and peer feedback

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Exploring Hofstede's dimensions of culture through discussion

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Holistic team collaboration evaluation

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Interactive course syllabus

Collaboration
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Peer workshop: Personal essay for creative writing

Collaboration
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Role play self-assessment using SPIN Selling methodology

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Peer Review: Role play self assessment

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Create final assessment instructions using GRASPS framework

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Real-world problem-solving lab

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Social annotation of diverse perspectives

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Peer-learning: Discuss your Frayer Frame

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Critical analysis of GenAI content

Problem-solving
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Low (<10 min)

Peer review of AI-generated content

Problem-solving
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Low (<10 min)

CBE peer review: Skills in action (Video or podcast-based)

Knowledge uptake
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Share and discuss solutions for TBL (with AI reflection coach)

Problem-solving
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Application exercise for TBL (with AI Discussion Coach)

Problem-solving
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Team formation for TBL

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Strengthening soft skills through peer feedback

Problem-solving
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Low (<10 min)

Perspective swap discussion

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Getting organized! Selecting the topic for the project

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Interdisciplinary project: Group member assessment & reflection

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Self Reflection of AI-generated Content

Critical thinking
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Low (<10 min)

Creating effective student groups

Critical thinking
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Low (<10 min)

Individual and group quiz in team-based learning

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Creating effective student groups

Collaboration
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Prompt-based open discussion

Critical thinking
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Low (<10 min)

Low-stakes knowledge check

Problem-solving
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Low (<10 min)

Instructor feedback on oral presentations

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Self-assessment on skills | Reflection moments

Critical thinking
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Interactive lecture presentation

Problem-solving
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Guided reading comprehension

Knowledge uptake
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Individual and group quiz in team-based learning

Problem-solving
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High (>30 min)

Self-assessment on deliverables

Knowledge uptake
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High (>30 min)

Pre-class preparation on a document

Collaboration
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High (>30 min)

Pre-class preparation on a video

Collaboration
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High (>30 min)

Pre-class preparation on an audio file

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Instant AI feedback on students' essays

Knowledge uptake
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Low (<10 min)

Instant AI feedback on research paper

Knowledge uptake
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Low (<10 min)

Introduction to course syllabus – Comprehension exercise

Knowledge uptake
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Low (<10 min)

Group collaboration evaluation for graduates

Collaboration
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Low (<10 min)

Undergraduate group evaluation

Collaboration
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Intermediate (10-30 min)

Instructor feedback on student research paper

Knowledge uptake

Game-based learning, directly within your LMS

FeedbackFruits integrates seamlessly with your Learning Management System, making it simple to incorporate game-based learning activities into your existing courses. Whether you teach online, hybrid, or face-to-face, FeedbackFruits ensures that activating student participation is just a few clicks away—no additional overhead, no steep learning curve.
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Explore our free resources about game-based learning

Project-/Problem-Based Learning: A guide to success

Gain understanding of team-based learning and how to best implement it in online and hybrid environments.
Read more

Learning design: A guide for creating impactful learning experiences

This webinar explores the best practices from TBL experts at Texas Christian University School of Medicine, and learn how Boston College scaled TBL to foster collaboration and employability skills.
Read more

Team-based learning: A guide to success (2024)

Instructors at Central Michigan University optimized the team-based learning process in a 200-level Biology course with FeedbackFruits learning activities.
Read more

See what FeedbackFruits learning activities can be used to support game-based learning

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Teacher Feedback

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Self-Assessment

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AI Feedback

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Quiz

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Peer Review

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Group Evaluations

See all learning activities

Game-based learning is hard. FeedbackFruits makes
it easier.

Unlock the full potential of game-based learning and more with the Learning Design System.
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