Review Article

Game On: A bibliometric analysis of gamification and game-based learning in teacher training and education

Amani Khalaf Hamdan Alghamdi 1 * , Shakil Ahmed 1 , Safiqur Rahaman 2
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1 Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, SAUDI ARABIA2 University of North Bengal, Siliguri, INDIA* Corresponding Author
Contemporary Educational Technology, 18(1), January 2026, ep632, https://doi.org/10.30935/cedtech/17953
Published: 19 February 2026
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ABSTRACT

A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was used to discern the impact and trends of gamification and game-based learning (GBL) in teacher training and education. Examining scholarly output from 2005 to 2024 (610 papers, 1,821 authors, and 4,461 citations) revealed key trends, prolific authors, influential publications and venues, and emerging research areas. The study assessed the growth of publications, frequency of keywords, and geographical distribution of research. Results reveal significant growth in gamification and GBL research with a notable increase in 2024, marked by 68 publications (a 3,300% increase from 2005), and a focus on gamification, GBL, motivation, and engagement as keywords. Most research originated from Spain, the USA, and Italy. Four universities generated most (40%) of the scholarship. Two authors stand out with 82 citations each and a remarkable average of 20.50 citations per publication. Francesca Pozzi was the most prolific author with five publications. Education Sciences was the most relevant journal with 21 papers. Integrating gamification and GBL into educational practices, supported by appropriate resources and teacher training, enhances learner outcomes and improves student motivation, engagement, and academic performance. However, challenges and barriers exist, especially inadequate teacher training, change resistance, and unclear distinctions between gamification and GBL. The research landscape to date inspires future research about factors conducive to effective and sustained impact of teacher preparation for gamified learning environments.
Keywords: gamification, game-based learning, teacher training, educational technology, learning outcomes

CITATION (APA)

Alghamdi, A. K. H., Ahmed, S., & Rahaman, S. (2026). Game On: A bibliometric analysis of gamification and game-based learning in teacher training and education. Contemporary Educational Technology, 18(1), ep632. https://doi.org/10.30935/cedtech/17953

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