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Browsing by Author "Gironella, Fiona"

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    Gamification pedagogy: a motivational approach to student-centric course design in higher education
    (2023) Gironella, Fiona
    This article explores the praxis of gamification pedagogy and post-secondary course design. The literature on gamified design theory and current research on its application as a pedagogy are explored. A student-centric, motivationally based gamification design model is proposed, operationalized, implemented, evaluated, and reiterated. The design process, application strategies and challenges, and resulting qualitative outcomes over a two-year implementation period of the re-designed gamified course are detailed. Student evaluations rated both the overlaid gamified structural design and the integrated course mechanics as highly motivating and contributing significantly to their success and positive learning experience. The gamified course design was able to resolve historical challenges for the identified course and increased student engagement. Gamification pedagogy proved uniquely effective for two sub-groups of students, those struggling with anxiety and second language learners. This innovative pedagogy effectively leveraged students’ unique intrinsic and extrinsic motivators to create an empowering, supportive, and highly effective learning framework.
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    Student-led community engagement projects as an alternative to traditional field placements
    (2025) Patrie, Nicole; Gironella, Fiona
    This paper presents an experiential learning project designed to replace a traditional field placement experience for students in the Correctional Services program at MacEwan University. Community Engagement Projects (CEP) were self-directed initiatives developed and implemented by students, undertaken in partnership with community organizations. Faculty members supported the projects through scaffolded assessments and weekly discussion seminars. Details of the CEP will be presented along with student and faculty reflections on the experience. Finally, we will explore options for future iterations of the project.