Elements of Game-Based Learning in Islamic Studies: A Systematic Review

This systematic literature review explores the core elements of game-based learning within the context of Islamic Studies, focusing particularly on the integration of gamification strategies, artificial intelligence (AI), and personalized learning environments. As educational paradigms shift towards more interactive and learner-centered approaches, gamification has emerged as a promising methodology to enhance student engagement, motivation, and learning effectiveness, especially in religious and values-based disciplines such as Islamic Studies. However, despite its growing application, there remains a lack of comprehensive analysis regarding how gamification intersects with AI technologies and functions within specialized educational contexts. To address this gap, an advanced systematic search was conducted across two major academic databases—Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) using keywords such as “gamification,” “game-based learning,” “detection,” and “AI.” This process adhered to the PRISMA framework, which guided the identification, screening, and inclusion of relevant studies, resulting in a final dataset of 45 peer-reviewed articles. The analysis yielded three key thematic categories: (1) Gamification and Learning Outcomes Engagement, Motivation, and Effectiveness, which emphasized how gamified approaches can enhance learning performance and satisfaction; (2) Integration of AI and Personalized Gamified Learning Environments, highlighting the role of AI in adapting learning experiences to individual learner profiles; and (3) Gamification in Specialized and Interdisciplinary Educational Contexts, illustrating the application of gamification in religious education, skill-based training, and collaborative learning models. Overall, the findings underscore the multifaceted benefits of gamification, especially when aligned with technological advancements and contextual needs, offering valuable insights for educators, curriculum designers, and researchers aiming to enrich Islamic Studies through innovative pedagogical tools.