Gamification [n]: the use of game design elements in non-game contexts.

That idea is the heart and soul of Brain Chase and the reason the Summer Learning Challenge is a big opportunity to boost students up a level this summer. Our work is to harness the best elements of game design and bring them to summer learning. This year’s Summer Learning Challenge is designed to maximize persistence, problem-solving, critical thinking—all behaviors that game playing can encourage and schools appreciate.

Check out this cool infographic from Knewton and Column Five Media. Brain Chase scores high along several elements of game design that the infographic highlights:

• Levels: Ramp up and unlock content as you make progress through the Challenge
• Points: Earn points for doing your Math Challenges
• Epic Meaning: Oh yes definitely. Brain Chase is all about working to achieve something “sublime and transcendent.”
• Virality: Be incentivized to involve others.
• Bonuses: Receive unexpected rewards. Have we mentioned these?

Thanks Getting Smart for introducing us to this infographic.