From humanities to STEAM: Gamified learning and the development of digital competencies in the classical high school

Although classical high schools in Italy are traditionally associated with lecture-based instruction, the integration of gamification offers promising ways to enhance student engagement and motivation. This study addresses the challenge of incorporating digital and computational competencies into humanistic education by examining the implementation of gamified learning strategies at classical high school with STEAM curriculum in the South of Italy. The purpose of the study is to explore how tools such as escape rooms, educational robotics, and artificial intelligence can transform the perception of coding, specifically Python programming, as a relevant and accessible subject within a classical curriculum. A longitudinal mixed-methods case study design was adopted. The sample included 52 students and 3 teachers who voluntarily participated in a year-long innovation program. Data were collected through pre/post questionnaires, direct observation, performance assessments, and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using chi-square tests; qualitative data were examined via thematic analysis. Results revealed a significant increase in students’ motivation, particularly in coding and robotics activities. Students reported enhanced engagement, improved collaboration, and reduced anxiety through AI-assisted coding. Teachers also perceived improved digital and pedagogical competencies, despite time constraints. Escape rooms emerged as particularly effective for promoting active learning, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary connections. These findings highlight the transformative potential of gamification in classical education settings. Practical implications include the need for professional development focused on integrating playful learning strategies. Future research should further explore scalable models to bridge the gap between humanities and digital education through sustained pedagogical innovation.