Paper Details

Abstract: This study examines the influence of games—both traditional and digital—on the academic motivation and achievement of senior secondary students. In today’s fast-evolving educational landscape, games are increasingly integrated into students’ lives, with their impact on academic outcomes becoming a focal point of educational research. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study involves a survey of senior secondary students, interviews with educators, and an analysis of academic performance data. The findings reveal that games, when used constructively, can significantly enhance students’ intrinsic motivation by fostering engagement, critical thinking, and collaborative skills. However, excessive gaming and poorly managed game-play can detract from academic focus and discipline. The research highlights the role of balanced gaming habits and educational games in promoting academic achievement. Recommendations are made for educators and parents to leverage the motivational benefits of games while mitigating potential drawbacks. This study contributes to the growing discourse on educational psychology and game-based learning, offering actionable insights for integrating games into academic environments effectively.

Keywords: Academic motivation, Academic achievement, Game-based learning, Digital games, Gamification in education.