Impact of gamification and service-learning on university students’ motivation and social engagement

Abstract

Introduction: Student demotivation is one of the main challenges in higher education. Active methodologies serve as a powerful tool to address this issue, as they place students at the center of their learning process. This study analyzes an intervention in university education that combines gamification and service-learning. Methodology: Using a qualitative approach based on the interpretive paradigm, anonymous student testimonies collected throughout the project were analyzed through thematic analysis, supported by NVivo software. Results: The findings indicate that the narrative inspired by Money Heist increased students' motivation, enhancing their engagement in the learning process. Additionally, the experiential approach facilitated the construction of meaningful learning, linking theory and practice while fostering creativity among future educators. Discussion: The results align with previous fiction-based interventions, highlighting the high levels of motivation that emerge when students become protagonists in an active and immersive learning experience. Conclusions: The intervention proved to be an effective strategy for enhancing motivation, learning, and social commitment, reinforcing the idea that active methodologies and gamification can transform university education.