Here is why a purpose-built, gamified tool like Wayground is my go-to choice for quizzes:
It’s Genuinely Fun and Engaging.
The moment you start a Wayground (Quizizz) session, the difference is palpable. It is a vibrant, game-like experience with avatars, themes, and music. Students earn points for correct answers and speed, watch their names climb a live leaderboard, and earn “power-ups” to use during the game. Instead of a dry form, it is an exciting competition that students are eager to join. Studies on Wayground consistently show that students feel happy, interested, and more confident when using it (CJLT, 2023).
The Feedback Loop is Instant and Powerful.
This is perhaps the most critical difference for formative assessment. In Wayground, students get immediate feedback after every single question. (I only endorse this for low critical thinking questions.) They know right away if they were correct or incorrect. This immediate feedback is crucial for learning, as it helps students adjust their strategies in real-time (RSIS International, 2024). Even better is the “Redemption Question” feature, which gives students a chance to re-attempt a question they got wrong. This closes the learning loop in the moment, reinforcing the correct concept when it matters most.
Retake is a Big Deal
A traditional test can be a high-pressure situation. Wayground masterfully lowers the stakes. With it’s question bank feature, something Google Forms lacks, the consequence of a low score can be to simply take it again.
This transforms the assignment from “get to the bottom of the page” to “show you’ve learned something.” A significant difference.
Gamification Elements
The playful memes, the self-paced format where students see questions on their own devices, and the overall game-like atmosphere make assessment feel less like a test and more like a game. The platform actively works to create a positive, low-pressure environment that motivates students to participate and persist.
Note that I usually will turn off the timer and other elements for my students who, like my own kids, have anxiety or don’t do well when timed.
It Fosters Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness.
Thinking back to Self-Determination Theory, Quizizz hits all three psychological needs. Students have autonomy in the self-paced format and through customizing their avatars. They build competence through achievable challenges, immediate feedback, and seeing their progress on the leaderboard. They experience relatedness through the friendly competition and team-based modes. It is a system designed not just to test knowledge, but to build motivation from the ground up.
