Research Article

GAMIFICATION STRATEGIES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON LEARNING MOTIVATION AND CONCEPT MASTERY IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE EDUCATION

Zaharaddeen ALIYU,1*, Hannatu Mohammad LAWAL1, Muhammad Bello ADAM1, Abdulrahman Shitu LAMIDO1
1 Department of Science Education, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
* Corresponding author: zaliyu@abu.edu.ng
Published: Oct, 2025
Pages: 117-122
Views: 11
Downloads: 5

Abstract

This study examined the impact of gamification strategies on students’ learning motivation and concept masteryin mathematics and science education in Nigerian secondary schools. A quasi-experimental design was adoptedusing intact classes from four public schools randomly assigned to experimental (gamified) and control(traditional) groups. A total of 180 students participated, and data were collected through a Concept MasteryTest and a Learning Motivation Questionnaire. ANCOVA analysis revealed significant differences between thetwo groups in both motivation and concept mastery, with the gamified group performing significantly better.The findings align with Self-Determination Theory and support the view that gamification enhances intrinsicmotivation and cognitive engagement, leading to improved academic outcomes. The study recommendsintegrating gamified instruction into STEM curricula, training teachers in game-based pedagogy, and supportingdigital education innovations across Nigeria.

Keywords

Gamification Motivation Concept Mastery Mathematics Education Science Education Self- Determination Theory Secondary Schools Nigeria

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How to Cite

ALIYU,, Z., LAWAL, H. M., ADAM, M. B., & LAMIDO, A. S. (2025). GAMIFICATION STRATEGIES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON LEARNING MOTIVATION AND CONCEPT MASTERY IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE EDUCATION. Journal of Educational Research and Development, 20(1), 117-122.

Z. ALIYU,, H. M. LAWAL, M. B. ADAM, and A. S. LAMIDO, "GAMIFICATION STRATEGIES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON LEARNING MOTIVATION AND CONCEPT MASTERY IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE EDUCATION," Journal of Educational Research and Development, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 117-122, October 2025.

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