There are many challenges in teaching computer programming: the diversity in students’ ability and aptitude levels; the time-consuming nature of programming; and the difficulty in motivating students to learn computer programming. Gamification refers to the application of gaming elements to non-game context, such as education, with the goal of increasing the engagement of students and inspiring them to continue learning. This paper presents the methodology of incorporating gamification elements in the teaching of computer programming and investigates the effects of gamification on students’ learning gains and interest in learning computer programming at the School of Engineering in Nanyang Polytechnic, Singapore. Key findings on the extent gamification supports students’ learning gains and interest in learning computer programming will be shared. Finally, the challenges faced in planning and designing appropriate educational games to teach computer programming will also be highlighted.
