Improving study habits using a behaviour change framework incorporating social motivation and gamification

Abstract

Students entering into their first year of university studies are subject to a jarring difference between the learning experiences of high school and university. High schools typically take a very structured approach to teaching whereas university expects students to take ownership of their learning. This dramatic shift often means students are not adequately prepared to form positive study habits on their own, or existing habits are likely to break down. Further complicating this issue is the rising popularity of video games and social networking amongst students. These two areas provide fun and engaging experiences for their users where traditional learning environments struggle to do so. In this research-in-progress paper, we propose a framework that can be used by instructors to improve learning environments so that their students are better engaged and encouraged to form positive study habits. The framework utilises a hybrid of the Transtheoretical model of behaviour change (TTM) and the SNAP model of motivation. Social networking and gamification are used as triggers that enable the process to occur. It is envisaged that this research will lead to instructors creating more effective learning environments with less effort, and making academic learning a more enjoyable pursuit for students