Gamification approaches to learning use game-inspired design elements to improve learning. Given manifold design options to implement gamification in virtual environments, an important but underexplored research area is how the composition of gamification elements affects learning. To advance research in this area, we systematically identified key…

Research on instructional design provides inconsistent results on the use of game elements in cognitive tasks or learning. Cognitive load theory suggests that game elements increase extraneous cognitive load and, thus, may distract the users. In contrast, from an emotional design perspective, the use of game elements is argued to increase…

Intelligent learning environments can be designed to support the development of learners' cognitive skills, strategies, and metacognitive processes as they work on complex decision-making and problem-solving tasks. However, the complexity of the tasks may impede the progress of novice learners. Providing adaptive feedback to learners who face…