Gimkit: The Ultimate Guide to Interactive Learning and Classroom Engagement

The modern classroom has transformed significantly over the past decade. With the rise of educational technology (EdTech), teachers now have innovative tools to make learning more interactive, fun, and student-centered. Among these tools, Gimkit stands out as one of the most engaging platforms designed for gamified learning.

Gimkit is not just another quiz platform; it combines elements of gaming, competition, and collaboration with learning. The result is a classroom environment where students are motivated to participate, practice, and improve knowledge while having fun.

In this ultimate 3,000-word guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Gimkit: its history, features, benefits, pros and cons, classroom applications, pricing, tips, alternatives, and FAQs.

What is Gimkit?

Gimkit is an interactive, game-based learning tool developed by Josh Feinsilber, a high school student from Seattle, in 2017. Inspired by other EdTech platforms like Kahoot and Quizlet Live, Gimkit was designed to make learning more fun, competitive, and rewarding.

Unlike traditional quiz platforms, Gimkit allows students to earn virtual currency as they answer questions correctly. They can then use these points to buy power-ups, upgrade game performance, or invest in strategies within the game. This unique economic system adds an extra layer of motivation, making students want to participate actively.

Key Features of Gimkit

1. Live Game Mode (Gimkit Live)

   • Teachers host live quizzes where students join using a game code.

   • Students earn points by answering correctly in real-time.

2. Assignments Mode

   • Students can complete quizzes at their own pace.

   • Useful for homework, practice, or remote learning.

3. In-Game Currency

   • Correct answers reward players with “cash.”

   • Students can spend earnings on upgrades, multipliers, or power-ups.

4. Customizable Kits

   • Teachers can create their own quiz sets (called “kits”).

   • Kits can include multiple-choice, true/false, and open-ended questions.

5. Power-Ups and Upgrades

   • Students can reinvest game earnings to increase their chances of winning.

6. Classroom Engagement

   • Encourages participation by turning quizzes into competitions.

7. Integrations

   • Compatible with Google Classroom, allowing seamless student access.

8. Multiple Game Modes

   • Features like “Trust No One” (Among Us style) and “The Floor is Lava.”

   • Keeps the classroom fun and varied.

Benefits of Gimkit for Teachers and Students

For Teachers

• Engagement – Students are more active during lessons.

• Assessment – Teachers can track progress and identify weak areas.

• Custom Content – Create quizzes tailored to class curriculum.

• Time-Saving – Pre-made kits available in Gimkit’s library.

For Students

• Fun Learning – Blends gaming with education.

• Motivation – Earning currency and competing boosts participation.

• Collaboration – Encourages teamwork in some modes.

• Retention – Interactive quizzes help with memory and recall.

How to Use Gimkit in the Classroom

1. Creating a Kit

   • Sign in as a teacher.

   • Create or import quiz questions.

2. Launching a Game

   • Choose between Live or Assignment mode.

   • Share the game code with students.

3. Student Participation

   • Students join with a code.

   • They answer questions to earn money.

4. Game Progression

   • Students reinvest earnings into upgrades.

   • Competition drives engagement.

5. Post-Game Review

   • Teachers can access performance reports.

   • Helps in formative assessment.

Gimkit Live vs Assignments

• Gimkit Live

  • Synchronous, in-class competition.

  • Best for group learning and real-time engagement.

• Gimkit Assignments

  • Asynchronous, self-paced quizzes.

  • Best for homework and remote learning.

Both modes make Gimkit versatile for different teaching scenarios.

Pros and Cons of Gimkit

Pros

 Fun and engaging for students
 Encourages competition and teamwork
 Easy-to-use interface
 Supports multiple subjects and grade levels
 Real-time feedback and assessment

Cons

 Premium subscription required for full access
 Can become overly competitive
 Internet access required
 Not suitable for every learning style

Gimkit Pricing

Gimkit offers two main plans:

1. Free Version

   • Limited features

   • Up to 5 students per game

2. Gimkit Pro (Paid Subscription)

   • Unlimited games and players

   • Access to all game modes

   • $9.99/month or $59.98/year

Many schools opt for district or school licenses for full integration.

Gimkit vs Other Platforms

Gimkit vs Kahoot

• Kahoot is quiz-focused; Gimkit adds currency and strategy.

• Gimkit provides deeper engagement with game mechanics.

Gimkit vs Quizizz

• Quizizz emphasizes self-paced learning; Gimkit emphasizes competition.

• Quizizz has broader question types; Gimkit has in-game economy.

Gimkit vs Quizlet Live

• Quizlet focuses on flashcards and vocabulary.

• Gimkit gamifies learning more heavily.

Classroom Applications of Gimkit

• Review Sessions – Reinforce knowledge before exams.

• Formative Assessments – Gauge student understanding in real-time.

• Homework Assignments – Provide practice outside class.

• Team Competitions – Boost collaboration.

• Ice-Breaker Games – Make learning fun at the start of the term.

Tips for Teachers Using Gimkit

1. Mix game modes to keep students engaged.

2. Balance competition with collaboration.

3. Use Gimkit Assignments for remote learners.

4. Encourage students to design their own kits.

5. Track results regularly to guide teaching strategies.

Future of Gimkit

As classrooms continue to embrace digital learning, Gimkit is expected to expand:

• More immersive game modes

• AI-driven personalization for student learning paths

• Stronger integration with LMS (Learning Management Systems)

Conclusion

Gimkit has transformed the way teachers engage with students. By blending education with gaming mechanics, it provides a unique experience where learning is not just effective but enjoyable.

Whether used for live classroom sessions, homework assignments, or exam reviews, Gimkit empowers both teachers and students to achieve more through interactive learning.

While it’s not without limitations, Gimkit’s innovative approach makes it one of the most impactful EdTech tools of the decade.

FAQs About Gimkit

Q1. What is Gimkit used for?
Gimkit is used for interactive classroom learning through game-based quizzes.

Q2. Who created Gimkit?
Gimkit was created by Josh Feinsilber, a high school student, in 2017.

Q3. Is Gimkit free?
Yes, Gimkit has a free version, but advanced features require a Pro subscription.

Q4. How much does Gimkit Pro cost?
Gimkit Pro costs $9.99 per month or $59.98 per year.

Q5. Can Gimkit be used for homework?
Yes, Gimkit Assignments allows self-paced learning outside class.

Q6. Is Gimkit better than Kahoot?
It depends. Gimkit adds gaming strategy with currency, while Kahoot focuses on quiz-style learning.

Q7. What age group is Gimkit best for?
Gimkit works well for middle school, high school, and even college-level classes.

Q8. Does Gimkit support remote learning?
Yes, Gimkit Assignments and live games can be used for remote learners.

Q9. Can students create their own Gimkit quizzes?
Yes, students can design kits for peer learning.

Q10. Is Gimkit worth the subscription?
For teachers seeking high engagement, Gimkit Pro is worth the investment.