Impact of Gamification to Understanding Bayes’ Theorem: A Study Using the Monty Hall Dilemma Simulation

Gamification is frequently employed in the learning of complex concepts. This study aims to examine the impact of a gamification intervention on university students’ understanding of Bayes’ Theorem and its application to business decision-making. To achieve this, an agent-based simulation model is developed to facilitate practice with the Monty Hall dilemma. Subsequently, a paired experiment with binary responses is conducted in two groups of students (the first with 67 students and the second with 55) in different contexts. Through a quiz games methodology, the findings indicate that the gamification intervention results in a 32.83% and 18.18% increase in the accuracy of responses provided by students (of the first and second group respectively) before and after engaging with the model. This difference between the two groups may be due to the greater mastery of probabilistic concepts by the students belonging to the second group. In any case, it appears that the enhanced motivation and engagement generated by gamification contributes to a more effective acquisition of the concepts addressed and potentially reducing dropout rates.