POLKcast: The ‘gamification’ of online learning

In this episode of POLKcast, host Jarrod Jones sits down with Instructional Designer Katie Ragsdale to explore the growing impact of gamification in online education. From badges and leaderboards to interactive modules and syllabus quizzes, gamification strategies are transforming how students engage with digital learning environments.

Ragsdale shares insights from her own educational journey as both a designer and student. Well-crafted gamification can support motivation, engagement and retention in online courses. The conversation explores trends in distance learning, student needs, evolving technologies like AI and VR and even a few personal gaming confessions.

Whether you are a student engaging in this gamification of online learning or an educator curious about integrating gamified elements in your class, this episode offers a thoughtful and entertaining look behind the screen.

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