Chapter 1
Your brain on a playground
Chapter 2
Games that save the world
Chapter 3
Gamifying the everyday world
Chapter 4
Play-based learning in action
Ch 4 · Play-based learning in action
duolingo Duolingo uses streak mechanics to tap into loss aversion, because people work harder to avoid losing progress than to gain rewards.
Quiz
What psychological concept explains why learners will work hard to avoid breaking a daily learning streak?
Quiz
According to educational app data, how much more likely are learners with a 7-day streak to complete a course?
duolingo Turning study sessions into games makes knowledge stick through active retrieval
Quiz
Approximately what percentage of information do students retain after a week when using active recall compared to passive reading?
Quiz
What is the term for forcing your brain to retrieve information during a quiz, which dramatically boosts memory?
Fun Fact
Game stats: A major 2026 study found that challenge-based gamification improved student performance by a massive 89% compared to traditional lecture-based teaching.
Quiz
On which continent did the ancient mathematical and strategic board game Mancala originate?
Quiz
What physical items are traditionally used as playing pieces in the game of Mancala?
Glossary
play-based learning (noun)
An educational approach that uses child-directed play as the primary context for learning and development. Dr. Alexandra Pillat advocates this method to help toddlers master early routines without encountering developmental pressure.
An educational approach that uses child-directed play as the primary context for learning and development. Dr. Alexandra Pillat advocates this method to help toddlers master early routines without encountering developmental pressure.
Quiz
What term does Jane McGonigal use to describe the intense motivation and belief that you can solve a tough challenge immediately?
Quiz
Which famous game designer and author coined the term epic win to describe overcoming extreme obstacles?