Problem Identification: Higher education experienced noticeable shifts in their educational environments in 2020 due to the ever-changing public health mandates. Our educational system was influenced by waves and phases of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) and how digital learning functions. Our research aims to determine the benefits of gamification in learning environments to increase learner engagement and knowledge retention. Gamification in higher education means educators apply game design elements to their instructional structure. The objective was to create a stronger engaging learning environment, change learning behaviors, and support innovation (Schaaf & Mohan, 2016). The Digital Learning and Innovation (DLI) team has implemented a micro-credential university-wide through a digital badging and leader board initiative. Micro-credentials through digital badging remains a highly visible way to demonstrate engagement and learner mastery for assessment, institutional effectiveness, and student achievement.

Donald Robinson, Director of Digital Learning and Innovation, Claremont Lincoln University
Stephanie Varnon-Hughes, Dean of Teaching, Learning & Leadership, Claremont Lincoln University

World-class learning is used to describe a myriad of 'things'; in this context, world-class learning is linking learning science and neuro-connectedness to a whole human approach to online education. We know more about how people learn now more than ever; yet, educational approaches are still often antithetical to what we know. At National University, we've created a guided framework for the sustainable development of courses (knowing courses are just a part of the whole student ecosystem, i.e., the digital campus) that can bolster learning efficacy, while working with faculty as SMEs at the center.

Errin Heyman, Associate Vice President, Learning Experience, National University