This study explores the use of gamification and Generative AI to enhance engagement and learning outcomes to “Design, build, and test front-end web pages according to specifications and best practices” in introductory web development education. It addresses the research question: “To what extent can a gamified, AI-supported learning intervention improve first-year students’ understanding of HTML and CSS while promoting meaningful engagement?
A three-level HTML & CSS Mastery Game was designed and implemented within a Web Applications module at Cardiff University. It comprises: (1) Builder Basics, focusing on HTML structure through interactive drag-and-drop tasks; (2) CSS Styling, requiring students to complete code based on design prompts; and (3) Guess the Tag, reinforcing conceptual understanding through matching activities. Generative AI contributed to the pedagogical design by supporting the creation of varied task instances, generating immediate and adaptive feedback, and enabling scalable content development. Its use was guided by principles of responsible AI, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and alignment with educational objectives. A mixed-methods research approach was adopted with 260 first-year students, combining quantitative performance data with qualitative feedback from 73 questionnaire responses. Findings indicate increased student engagement, improved conceptual understanding, with participants reporting higher motivation and a preference for the gamified approach compared to traditional formative assessments.
This study contributes to the field of higher education pedagogy by presenting a scalable framework for integrating gamification and Generative AI into computing education. It highlights how AI can be used to enhance active learning and formative assessment while maintaining pedagogical integrity and supporting inclusive education.

Authors:
Daniela Tsaneva, Cardiff University, United Kingdom

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Daniela Tsaneva, Teacher, Ai, Machine Learning, Recommender Systems, Sentiment Analysis, Assessment made engaging

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-tsaneva-b7272828/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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