Students' learning performance in a gamified and self-determined learning environment

Gamification is a prominent approach to foster motivation and further enhance learning performance. Many studies, on the other hand, highlighted the importance of applying the Self-determination motivational theory while designing a gamified environment. However, few studies have investigated the effect of using a gamified and self-determined learning environment on students' learning performance. Therefore, this study presents a gamified and self-determined learning environment and investigates its effect on students' performance. The obtained results showed that points, badges, levels, leaderboard, progress bar, chat, feedback and avatar game design elements can satisfy students' psychological needs presented in the self-determination theory. Additionally, it is found that using a gamified and self-determined learning environment can enhance students' learning performance. These results can be useful for designers of gamified learning environments in order to promote students' motivation and further enhance their learning performance.