Gamification and Physical Education: benefits, challenges, and principles. A narrative review.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55040/vh62sz80Keywords:
gamification, Physical Education, student motivationAbstract
Contemporary Physical Education faces challenges that demand pedagogical innovation and teaching strategies aligned with current educational needs. In this context, gamification has emerged as a methodological alternative that integrates game elements into non-game environments, promoting motivation, interaction, and active student participation. The aim of this narrative review was to critically analyze the benefits, challenges, and principles associated with the implementation of gamification in Physical Education. A systematized search was conducted in five international databases: Scopus, Web of Science, ERIC, Dialnet y PubMed until November 2025, using Boolean combinations in English and Spanish. Out of 157 identified articles, 20 studies published between 2021 and 2025 were selected, including reviews and empirical research published in indexed journals. The findings indicate that gamification increases motivation, engagement, autonomy, and meaningful learning, while also improving physical performance, teamwork, and classroom climate. Additionally, it strengthens socio-emotional skills, cooperation, and self-regulation, fostering more inclusive and participatory learning environments. However, its implementation requires pedagogical rigor and faces challenges related to teacher training, unequal access to technological resources, and the inappropriate use of competitive dynamics. Three guiding principles are proposed: enhancing motivation, designing contextualized experiences, and encouraging critical reflection. Finally, a conscious and educational use of gamification is recommended in order to contribute to students’ holistic development, support the Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthen inclusive pedagogical practices.
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