Gamification to Strengthen Independent Learning Among Elementary School Students

Abstract

This research examines the impact of gamification as a pedagogical strategy to strengthen autonomous learning in Basic Education students. The study addresses the need to overcome the limitations of traditional methodologies, which often focus on passive content transmission and neglect intrinsic motivation and self-regulation. Gamification, understood as the incorporation of game dynamics into educational contexts, emerges as an innovative resource that promotes active participation, decision-making, and sustained engagement with school tasks. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, considering publications between 2010 and 2025 in databases such as Scopus, ERIC, and Redalyc. Inclusion criteria focused on studies that applied gamification strategies in Basic Education and measured their impact on autonomous learning. Findings reveal that gamification increases intrinsic motivation, fosters self-regulation, and enhances students’ ability to manage their own learning process. In several studies, more than 70% of teachers reported significant improvements in students’ autonomy and responsibility when gamified dynamics were integrated into the classroom. Additionally, gamification was found to support the creation of more inclusive learning environments by offering challenges adapted to different performance levels and allowing each student to progress at their own pace. This approach helps reduce gaps among diverse learning styles and strengthens students’ confidence in their abilities. The conclusion confirms that gamification is an effective pedagogical strategy to promote autonomous learning in Basic Education, provided it is designed with clear objectives, systematically integrated into teaching practice, and evaluated with concrete indicators that measure its real impact on student development.