Gamification Approaches to Improve Learning Outcomes among Medical Students

Aims: Gamification has increasingly been incorporated into medical education to improve student engagement, motivation, and academic performance. This study aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of gamification-based learning interventions on knowledge outcomes, clinical skills, OSCE performance, and student motivation. Information & Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with the PRISMA ۲۰۲۰ guidelines. Literature searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and citation-tracking sources through December ۲۰۲۵. Quantitative studies evaluating gamification interventions among undergraduate or professional medical students were included. Data were synthesized narratively, and a meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model. Effect sizes were calculated using standardized mean differences with ۹۵% confidence intervals, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. Findings: Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, and six were eligible for meta-analysis. The pooled analysis demonstrated a moderate positive effect of gamification compared with conventional teaching approaches. Greater benefits were observed in clinically oriented and skill-based learning activities, although substantial heterogeneity was identified across studies. Gamification also improved collaborative participation, learning satisfaction, and classroom interaction in several studies involving simulation-based educational activities in undergraduate medical education programs. Conclusion: Gamification is a promising educational strategy in medical education.

کلیدواژه ها:

Gamification ، Medical education ، Medical students ، Learning ، Clinical Competence