Analysing adaptive gamification design principles for online courses

This study aims to analyse and define adaptive gamification design principles for online courses. According to this aim, the study was framed by two theoretical approaches, gamification and adaptive learning. Research was conducted as a qualitative holistic single case study. A theoretical matrix was established based on the theoretical basis of the research, and the content of this matrix was converted into a questionnaire which includes 9 semi-structured questions. This was followed by a four round Delphi panel with 12 field experts. The qualitative data obtained in the first phase was analyzed using content analysis and the quantitative data obtained in the second and third phases were analyzed by calculating distribution of frequencies and measures of central tendency. This checklist was presented to online course designers and experts in the field of open and distance education with focus groups interviews for to evaluate the applicability and the significance. After the delphi rounds and the focus group interview a checklist was formed about adaptive gamification design principles for online courses which consisted of 102 design principles under 11 themes. According to findings and conclusion of this study, various recommendations were made based on the results. It is thought that the developed framework can be used to guide institutions and researchers in the field of open and distance education. Keywords: Gamification, Adaptivity, Gamification design principles, Online course design