Gamifying online learning: An evaluation of Kahoot’s effectiveness in promoting student engagement

This study critically assesses Kahoot!’s effectiveness in enhancing student engagement in online learning environments, filling identified research gaps, such as theoretical gaps, online application challenges, and reliance on quantitative methods. Utilizing semi-structured interviews, it explores the impact of Kahoot! on student engagement, framed within Moore’s (1989) engagement theory. The findings demonstrate that while Kahoot! advances student engagement through immediate feedback and gamification, its limitations in fostering deep learning, student–lecturer interactions beyond academic matters, and peer-to-peer interactions are not optimized. The study suggests that to achieve comprehensive engagement, educators should integrate various interactive tools alongside Kahoot! in virtual classrooms.