Exploring Theory, Design, and Impact in Gamified Financial Education Apps: A Bibliometric Study

Gamification, Financial Education Apps, Financial Literacy, User Engagement, Gamification Elements, Bibliometric Analysis

This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of gamification in financial education applications, offering a systematic review of the existing academic literature. The analysis reveals a flourishing research domain with significant potential for enhancing user engagement and financial literacy. Key findings highlight the critical role of established theoretical frameworks, particularly Self-Determination Theory and Flow Theory, in explaining the psychological mechanisms through which gamification operates. The bibliometric trends indicate a rapid growth in publications, with a notable acceleration in recent years, reflecting increased academic and practical interest. Geographically, Asia leads in research output, while influential journals span education, technology, and human behaviour disciplines. Despite the promising landscape, the field faces challenges related to methodological rigor, the long-term sustainability of engagement, and the significant effects of reward systems. This analysis provides a robust evidence base, offering crucial context and strategic directions for future inquiry, thereby strengthening the understanding of how gamification can optimize user engagement in financial education apps.