Motivating University Students Using a Location-Aware Time Management System with Social Networking Features

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Description/Abstract

Time management in university learning environments can be different from that in the professional workplace or at school. Students are required to learn independently, many learning activities take place outside the formal teaching timetable, and students might require additional motivation to embark on learning tasks. In this paper, we present the design of a time management system prototype addressing these special requirements. Our system incorporates social networking features, enhanced social presence with location awareness, and motivational techniques. Individual learning task progress data is disclosed to associated students, enabling them to assess their own progress and seek help from their peers if necessary. Furthermore, their current geographical position and that of their peers is shown on a virtual map. We use this prototype in an experiment involving 55 students studying on a computer science or information technology in organisations undergraduate degree in their first year. Our research objectives are to test the effects of the system on academic performance, and to evaluate whether system use affects personal stress and learner motivation.