Abstract: Courses in virtual learning environments can leave recently enrolled participants in a state of loneliness, confusion and boredom. . What course content is essential in the course, where can more information be found and which assignments are ma
ndatory? Research has stated that learner control and motivation are crucial issues for successful online education. This paper presents and discusses visualisation as a channel to improve learner s control and understanding of programming concepts and ga
mification as a way to increase study motivation in virtual learning environments. Data has been collected by evaluation questionnaires and group discussions in two courses partly given in the Moodle virtual learning environment. One course is on Game bas
ed learning for Bachelor s programmes, the other is a course on e-learning for university teachers. Both the courses have used progress bars to visualise students study paths and digital badges for gamification. Results have...