AI and gamification in workplace learning: a qualitative inquiry into shallow vs deep learning

Purpose This study aims to investigate the “gamification paradox” in artificial intelligence (AI)-driven corporate learning: the phenomenon whereby game-like elements boost short-term engagement while inadvertently undermining deep, long-term learning. It aims to understand how human resource (HR) professionals and employees perceive the impact of gamified AI platforms on intrinsic motivation, conceptual understanding and sustainable skill development. By exploring these lived experiences, the research seeks to move beyond quantitative engagement metrics and provide a nuanced qualitative analysis of the trade-offs between surface-level participation and meaningful learning outcomes in modern workplace training environments. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative, interpretivist research design was employed, using semistructured interviews with 25 participants (15 HR/learning and development (L&D) professionals and 10 employees) from Indian technology firms. Thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework, was applied to the data using NVivo software. The analysis was informed by a theoretical foundation of cognitive load theory, self-determination theory and the deep versus surface learning framework. This approach allowed for an in-depth exploration of participants’ subjective experiences and the identification of recurring patterns related to motivation, cognitive engagement and learning depth. Findings The analysis revealed three core themes illustrating the gamification paradox. First, reward-focused behavior reduced intrinsic motivation, as participants worked for badges and points rather than knowledge. Second, learning experiences became fragmented, with modular, task-oriented content hindering conceptual integration and critical thinking. Third, a noticeable dependency on external stimuli (e.g. leaderboards and notifications) emerged to sustain engagement, undermining self-directed learning and intrinsic learning. These findings collectively demonstrate how AI-powered gamification can prioritize and reward surface-level completion at the expense of deeper, more reflective and sustainable learning outcomes. Research limitations/implications The study’s qualitative approach provides rich insights but limits statistical generalizability. The sample, while diverse, was confined to 25 participants within the Indian technology sector, and their experiences may not fully transfer to other industries or cultural contexts. The reliance on self-reported data also introduces the potential for social desirability bias. Furthermore, the research captures perceptions and experiences at a single point in time, leaving the longitudinal impact of gamified AI on career progression and long-term knowledge retention an area for future investigation. Practical implications For human resource development (HRD) practitioners, the findings recommend a balanced design for AI-powered learning. Gamified elements should be complemented with reflective checkpoints, scenario-based assessments and collaborative forums to foster deep processing. Rewards should recognize critical thinking, not just completion. A blended approach, integrating traditional methods for conceptual depth with gamification for engagement, is advised. Finally, evaluation must move beyond completion metrics to assess application and critical thinking, ensuring programs support long-term capability development alongside short-term participation. Social implications This research highlights a critical societal risk: the potential for widely adopted corporate training tools to foster a workforce skilled at “gaming” systems but deficient in critical thinking and adaptive problem-solving. This could impact organizational innovation and resilience. Conversely, by advocating for pedagogically sound learning design, the study promotes the development of more meaningful and empowering workplace education. This contributes to a more critically engaged workforce, which is essential for navigating complex global challenges and fostering sustainable economic growth built on genuine expertise and lifelong learning. Originality/value This study’s originality lies in its qualitative, empirical investigation of the “gamification paradox” within real-world corporate L&D. It moves beyond dominant quantitative studies on engagement metrics to provide nuanced evidence of how gamified AI can inadvertently undermine deep learning. The research uniquely integrates three foundational learning theories to explain this paradox and offers a critical perspective from the rapidly evolving context of Indian tech firms. This triangulation of theory, method and context provides a novel and significant contribution to HRD and educational technology literature.