Play and gamification tools for coexistence and gender equity in education: Scope review

Abstract

Introduction: Education currently faces significant challenges, especially its role in gender dynamics and coexistence. Therefore, tools such as play and gamification offer new ways to address these challenges. Objective: To provide a comprehensive analysis of the use of playful dynamics and gamification as means to enhance school coexistence and gender equity. Methodology: Based on the PRISMA-ScR protocol, 11 academic research projects published between 2020 and 2025, focusing on higher and secondary education levels, were examined. Results: The findings reveal that techniques such as escape rooms, video game applications, and collaborative games generate beneficial effects on coexistence; these tools optimize the educational environment. Regarding gender equity, they favor the deconstruction of traditional roles and implicit violence, encouraging more inclusive behaviors. However, limited scientific production is identified in Latin American contexts and in primary education, as well as limited temporal follow-up to measure lasting effects. Conclusions: The effectiveness of play and gamification is not intrinsic; rather, it requires specific educational objectives, teacher preparation, and institutional policies. While playful methodologies show promising results, their effective application requires careful design that considers the specific characteristics of each student group.