GAMIFICATION IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASSES: IMPACTS ON STUDENT LEARNING AND MOTIVATION

Abstract

This article analyzes the use of gamification in Physical Education classes and its impacts on students’ learning and motivation in the contemporary school context. The study discusses how technological advances and the constant presence of digital resources in young people’s daily lives have influenced pedagogical practices, requiring more dynamic, participatory, and innovative teaching methodologies. In this scenario, gamification emerges as an educational strategy capable of integrating game elements into the teaching-learning process, promoting greater engagement, interaction, and student participation in school activities. The research highlights that the application of challenges, rewards, scores, and collaborative activities can contribute to students’ cognitive, social, emotional, and motor development in Physical Education classes. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that gamification helps connect school content to the technological reality experienced by students, making classes more meaningful and motivating. The article also discusses the main challenges related to the implementation of this methodology, such as the need for teacher training, adequate technological infrastructure, and effective pedagogical planning. The research is characterized as qualitative, descriptive, and bibliographic, based on books, scientific articles, and academic productions related to Physical Education, educational technologies, and active methodologies. It is concluded that gamification has great potential to transform pedagogical practices in school Physical Education, strengthening student protagonism, meaningful learning, and active participation in the contemporary educational environment.