GAMIFICATION IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FINAL YEARS: INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES FOR STRENGTHENING LEARNING

Resumen

Contemporary education faces the challenge of developing teaching practices capable of meeting the needs of students living in a society characterized by rapid technological advancement, constant access to information, and new ways of learning. In this context, gamification has emerged as an innovative educational strategy that incorporates game elements such as challenges, levels, rewards, points, immediate feedback, and collaboration into educational environments to enhance teaching and learning processes. Unlike educational games themselves, gamification applies game mechanics and dynamics to non-game contexts in order to increase motivation, engagement, and active participation. This study aims to analyze, through a narrative literature review, the contributions of gamification to teaching and learning in lower secondary education (Ensino Fundamental II), highlighting its benefits, challenges, and educational possibilities. The research is based on national and international scientific literature, Brazilian educational policies, and studies on active methodologies, digital technologies, and learning theories. The findings indicate that gamification promotes autonomy, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills while strengthening students' intrinsic motivation. However, its successful implementation depends on careful pedagogical planning, teacher training, and the intentional integration of digital technologies into the curriculum. It is concluded that gamification represents a promising pedagogical approach for lower secondary education when aligned with curricular objectives and the competencies established by the Brazilian National Common Curricular Base (BNCC), contributing to more meaningful, participatory, and student-centered learning experiences.