Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis explores the use of gamification to enhance student engagement in computer science education. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in incorporating game elements into educational settings to increase student motivation and participation. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of gamification in improving student engagement, learning outcomes, and overall experience in computer science courses. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research topic, discussing the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. Chapter 2 presents a comprehensive literature review, examining existing research on gamification in education and its impact on student engagement. Chapter 3 outlines the research methodology, including research design, data collection methods, participant selection, and data analysis procedures. This chapter also discusses ethical considerations and limitations of the research process. Chapter 4 presents the findings of the study, analyzing the impact of gamification on student engagement and learning outcomes. The chapter discusses key themes that emerged from the data and provides insights into the effectiveness of gamification strategies in computer science education. Finally, Chapter 5 offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications for practice, and recommendations for future research. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on gamification in education and provides practical insights for educators looking to enhance student engagement in computer science courses through the use of game elements.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Enhancing Student Engagement in Computer Science Education through Gamification" aims to explore the potential benefits of incorporating gamification techniques in computer science education to enhance student engagement. The main objective is to investigate how gamification can be effectively utilized to improve student motivation, participation, and learning outcomes in computer science courses. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to examine existing studies on gamification in education, specifically focusing on its applications in the field of computer science. This review will provide a theoretical foundation for the study and highlight key concepts, principles, and best practices related to gamification in education. The research methodology will involve a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Surveys, interviews, and classroom observations will be conducted to gather insights from both students and instructors regarding their experiences with gamified learning activities. The data analysis will involve both statistical analysis of survey responses and thematic analysis of qualitative data to identify patterns, trends, and themes related to student engagement and learning outcomes. The findings of the study will be presented and discussed in detail, highlighting the impact of gamification on student engagement in computer science education. The discussion will also address potential challenges and limitations of implementing gamification strategies in the classroom and offer recommendations for educators looking to integrate gamified activities into their teaching practices. Overall, this research aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the use of gamification in education and provide practical insights for educators seeking to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes in computer science courses. By exploring the potential benefits and challenges of gamification, this study seeks to offer valuable recommendations for designing effective gamified learning experiences that promote student motivation, participation, and academic success.