Gamification Versus E-Learning for Electrocardiogram Education

Overview

This randomized controlled study aims to compare the effectiveness of a gamification educational method and an e-learning educational method for electrocardiogram (ECG) education. Nursing students and novice nurses are randomly assigned to either a gamified learning group or an e-learning group. The study evaluates whether the gamification approach improves ECG knowledge, learning confidence, and learning satisfaction compared with conventional e-learning instruction.

Electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation is an essential competency for nursing students and novice nurses. Traditional educational approaches, including lecture-based and self-directed e-learning methods, may not fully engage learners or promote active participation. Gamification has emerged as an innovative educational strategy that incorporates game elements into learning activities to enhance motivation, engagement, and knowledge acquisition. This randomized controlled study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of a gamification educational method with a conventional e-learning educational method for ECG education. Participants were assigned to either a gamification group or an e-learning group. The gamification intervention incorporated interactive learning activities designed to facilitate active participation and reinforce ECG learning concepts, whereas the comparison group received self-directed e-learning instruction. The study was designed to evaluate whether gamification could improve learning outcomes and provide evidence for the application of innovative educational strategies in nursing education and clinical training programs.