E-learning in Vocational Institutions: Trends, Challenges, and Gamification Opportunities

Despite the growing use of e-learning in vocational schools under learner-centered approaches, its implementation is hindered by the practical, skill-oriented demands of training and disparities in digital preparedness among teachers and students. This study aims to identify current trends in e-learning implementation in vocational schools, analyse its challenges and limitations, and explore emerging opportunities. This study adopts the PRISMA framework to conduct a systematic literature review, following structured steps for identification, screening, eligibility assessment, and synthesis of selected studies. The results show that while blended learning models, digital tools, and learner autonomy are increasingly prioritized in vocational education, inadequate infrastructure, insufficient teacher training, and low digital competence hinder their effectiveness, leading to poor student motivation and engagement, yet gamification as a potential solution to enhance interest and interactivity remains underexplored in e-learning. Therefore, this study calls for a more in-depth investigation to better integrate teaching methods and contexts into gamified e-learning.