Interaction in Online Design Education

Abstract

Online education represents a learning approach that is digital and it utilizes internet technologies to provide educational content so students can access learning materials, communicate with instructors and engage in other forms of education from remote locations. In this context, online design education appears as a niche domain wherein students are subjected to a very long chain of tutorials that is eventually boring and which impacts students’ motivation and also the eventual outcome of learning. The paper offers a case for the adaption of gamification principles in online design education as a means of improvement for better learning and engagement. The study ensured a mixed-method approach in the consideration of benefits concerning the inclusion of aspects of gamification within the curriculum as against a more traditional model applied towards tutorials. As this paper is only focused on online Design education; the survey has been taken of both students and designers. The research found that hands-on, challenge-based learning was more appealing than passive methods. The survey suggested that gamification's inhibitive features were appreciated whereas collaboration and skill-building features intensely enhanced engagement. Portfolio-building activities and systems built around skills seem to be the biggest asset; thus, meaningful learning experiences beyond just gaming mechanics are required. Meaningful learning experiences beyond just gaming mechanics seem required; so, what made learning interesting and worthwhile were, in fact, the essential features of peer reviews, mentorship, and flexible learning paths, according to the survey.