Gamification: Is it just a fad?

    Throughout learning about Gamification, I have come to believe that is it not just another fad. As a child grows up, they are introduced to many video games online and also handhelds. In every game there was always some type of rewards given for completing levels, collecting points, defeating a bad guy, etc. Also, if you were to walk up to a child and watch them play, you would see how concentrated they were and focused.
    Today, introducing Gamification into classrooms and educational settings is a wonderful idea. It is like bringing a students childhood memory back of playing video games. When someone hears from their teacher or professor "Okay kids, we're going to play a game," excitement fills the room and everyone seems to be engaged in whatever activity it is. Gamification is highly educational in my opinion; there is such a range of things you can do with it from the games, to the assignments that follow, and even the research done for your own knowledge.
  I know that when I eventually have a classroom full of students Gamification will always be on my mind and even a possible article I could use with my students. If anything, I think the use of it will grow and not disappear like some of the other educational assets that have come and gone throughout the years.