UBalt Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/11603/3280

The UBalt Electronic Theses and Dissertations collection accepts theses and dissertations from all graduate programs at the University of Baltimore. Beginning in 2017, all graduate students are required to submit an electronic copy of their thesis or dissertation to this collection. Submissions prior to 2017 were at either the behest of an individual program or at the student's discretion.

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 261

Evaluating the Alignment of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program (CTHMSP) with Vision 2030 Goals for Human Capital Development in Saudi Arabia
(2025-05-09) Nasr, Ryma; Wyatt-Nichol, Dr. Heather; Naylor, Dr. Lorenda; Thomas, Dr. Larry; The University of Baltimore. College of Public Affairs.; The University of Baltimore. Doctor of Public Administration.
This dissertation explores the alignment of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program (CTHMSP) with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, focusing on human capital development, program sustainability, and social impact. The research examines how CTHMSP fosters skills in high-demand sectors like STEM, tourism, and renewable energy, while addressing challenges such as skill mismatches, gender equity, and labor market integration. Employing human capital development theory and a comprehensive conceptual framework, the study utilizes qualitative methodologies, including document analysis, to analyze CTHMSP’s contributions to workforce development, financial sustainability, and gender inclusion. Key findings reveal that while CTHMSP has made significant strides in diversifying Saudi Arabia’s economy and empowering women, it faces challenges such as funding volatility, limited rural outreach, and gaps in industry-academic collaboration. The research offers actionable recommendations for enhancing program adaptability, strengthening public-private partnerships, and aligning educational outcomes with labor market demands. This study provides critical insights into the role of large-scale education initiatives in fostering economic resilience, gender equity, and sustainable development, contributing to global discourse on education policy and workforce transformation.
The Impacts of U.S. Department of Defense Humanitarian Civic Assistance Projects on Host Nation Community Resilience.
(2025-04) Terrio, Thomas; Edlins, Mariglynn; Wood, Jeffrey; University of Baltimore. College of Public Affairs; University of Baltimore. Doctor of Public Administration
The US Department of Defense's Humanitarian Civic Assistance (HCA) projects are an important tool that enhances community resilience in partner nations. My research on the impacts of HCA projects on resilience in Togo and Tunisia shows that proximity to HCA projects correlates with better access to medical care, suggesting a positive impact on community resilience. The DOD’s shift away from humanitarian assistance activities resulted in reduced funding for HCA projects. However, HCA continues to be an important assistance tool. HCA project impacts on community resilience can be improved by additional funding, improved planning, and closer attention to the local context.
Administration, Delivery, and Creation of Public Value: Zambia’s Public Pension Fund
(2025-03-24) Michelo, Kelly; Naylor, Lorenda; Wyatt-Nichol, Heather; Michael, Eleftherios; University of Baltimore. College of Public Affairs; University of Baltimore. Doctor of Public Administration
This study pioneers the application of the Public Value (PV) framework to Zambia’s Public Pension Funds (PPFs); it explores stakeholder’s conceptions of public value and its alignment with Ubuntu principles. Through 47 in-depth interviews over 7 months, the research identifies challenges in addressing the growing elderly population’s needs and proposes reforms to improve the pension system. The study’s innovative alignment of PV with Ubuntu principles offers social solidarity and collective well-being. The research investigates how stakeholders’ conceptions of public value align with their goals, the existing administrative frameworks, and the needs of the PPFs, and implications for reforming PPF to better serve retired public servants and the growing elderly population. This qualitative study contributes to the understanding of public value in pension system reform and informs policy and administrative improvements for Zambia’s PPFs. Key findings highlight the need for aligning vision and mission statements with social protection goals and Ubuntu principles, addressing funding and technological constraints, enhancing transparency and stakeholder engagement, and digitizing and decentralizing services. This research seeking to improve public pension systems in Africa and beyond.
Does Strategy Matter?: A Sequential Explanatory Mixed-Method Research investigating the strategic plans and adaptation of select public universities on the West Coast.
(2024) Xiong, Tou Fue; Wachhaus, Aaron; Naylor, Lorenda; Sheehan, Ivan Sascha; University of Baltimore. College of Public Affairs; University of Baltimore. Doctor of Public Administration
The higher education landscape in the United States has seen major changes in recent years. Predominately, an increase enrollment of traditionally underrepresented minority (URM1) students as evident from data within the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES2). Moreover, 4-year degree granting public universities have seen a healthy trajectory of URM enrollment compared to private for-profit and non-profit universities (NCES3). However, the degree completion and graduation rate of URM students has been stagnant over the years with minimal growth even though the enrollment has increased steadily throughout the years4. Although public universities have seen an increase in enrollment for URM students, the fact that URM students are not graduating at rates comparable to their non-URM counterparts is concerning. From a research perspective, it is critical to analyze how institutions of higher education (mainly public universities) are responding to this issue and whether they are taking actions to close any gaps. Literatures in public administration suggest the use of strategic planning as a tool to help large organizations such as public universities identify areas of improvement (weaknesses) while gathering collective support to find solutions to these problems (Bryson & Hamilton Edwards 2017; Conway et. al 1994; Dooris et. al 2004; Ellis, 2010). The objective is for public universities to think critically about issues hindering the academic performance of URM students and in turn, attain comprehensive responses to address this issue. Given the increasing enrollment of URM students and minimal growth of graduation rates among them, the premise of this research is to analyze the strategic plans of public universities and assess the strategic stances of universities that witness an increase in graduation rate compared to and those that did not. Using the theoretical frameworks of Miles et al. (1978) and Chaffee (1985), this research will seek to explore ways public universities can be responsive to closing the graduation gap of URM students. To accomplish this, the research design for this study is guided by a sequential explanatory mixed-method approach, which allows the researcher to conduct quantitative and qualitative analysis in which the latter is use to supplement the former. The design fits the need of this research because it gives the researcher the opportunity to not only gather quantitative data by performing content analysis of strategic plans, but also adds a layer of knowledge through interviewing key decision-makers (ideally the University President, Vice-Presidents, or other key administrators) on how they identify themselves from a strategic perspective. 1 Underrepresented Minority (URM) students as defined by various institutions of higher education consist of Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, or American Indian. 2 National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/TrendGenerator/app/trend- table/2/2?trending=column&valueCode=grand_total&f=4%3D1%3B2%3D1%3B9%3D1%3B1%3D1&rid =65&cid=57 3National Center for Education Statistics: Student Enrollment - How many students enroll in postsecondary institutions annually? (ed.gov) 4 National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/TrendGenerator/app/trend- table/7/19?trending=column&valueCode=2&f=1%3D1%3B2%3D1%3B4%3D1%3B5%3D1&rid=49&cid =57
Designing Multi-modal Timeline Interfaces to Make Conscious Decisions About Alcohol Intake
(University of Baltimore, 2025-02-11) Martineau, Katherine; Blodgett, Bridget (chair); Donahue, John; The University of Baltimore Yale Gordon College of Arts & Sciences; The University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture
At a time when voice and chat technologies continue to find niches in digital, what tools can be available to people who seek support with reducing alcohol intake? Recent research on smartphone sensing to track alcohol recommends taking a social context approach to address public health hazards of drinking, while many current digital services require self-reporting. Focusing on two audiences, one who wants abstinence, and one that desires to reduce drinking, it is clear that many solutions focus on an abstinence focused approach. Medical practitioners recommend solutions that take a more phased approach to reducing alcohol usage. Traditional programs to reduce drinking in digital technologies focus on cessation and quitting permanently over a phased or reflective approach to reducing alcohol intake. Understanding how communities that experience minority stress, specifically bisexual individuals, can inform ideas of how to create new social spaces that decrease interpersonal stress. What can happen with a timeline, which typically focuses on quantitative metrics, to a solution that focuses more on modulating and thinking through alcohol usage. And, as AI assistants now can get built in code with tools like Claude and ChatGPT. Traditional biometrics like breathalyzers give personalized feedback; how can this evolve into a digital interface that tracks this data over time, and in a private and safe way in a digital interface?
Unpacking the Transition, Factors Influencing the Adoption of Paperless Statements
(2024-12-03) Izquierdo, Gema; Walsh, Greg; University of Baltimore. Division of Science, Information Arts and Technologies; University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture
Abstract This study investigates the persistence of paper statements among digitally engaged consumers, analyzing why certain individuals continue to rely on physical statements despite frequent use of online banking platforms. By exploring technological, psychological, and behavioral factors, this research examines barriers to the adoption of paperless systems, including trust issues, usability challenges, and unmet user needs. Drawing from the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model, the study categorizes users based on their adoption behaviors, uncovering motivations across generational and behavioral divides. Through qualitative and quantitative methods, including empathy interviews and screener surveys, the study identifies critical themes: the perceived reliability and security of paper, limited user awareness of digital platform capabilities, and the importance of usability and accessibility in driving adoption. Participants’ preferences highlight the need for hybrid solutions, extended archival capabilities, and user-centered design to bridge the gap between paper and digital systems. The findings offer actionable insights for financial institutions aiming to transition customers to paperless systems, emphasizing trust-building measures, enhanced education, and tailored interventions. By addressing these barriers and aligning digital solutions with user expectations, banks can foster a smoother transition toward sustainable and efficient financial management practices. This research contributes to the broader discourse on digital transformation and behavioral change, providing a foundation for future studies and strategies to promote paperless adoption.
Recommendations for Accessible Informal Learning Sites
(2024-12) Deshpande, Pranita; Walsh, Greg; Summers, Kathryn; University of Baltimore. Division of Science, Information Arts and Technologies; University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture
As more users engage with informal learning platforms, ensuring that these resources are accessible to all, including individuals with disabilities, is increasingly important. This study investigates the challenges adults, both with and without disabilities, face when using these platforms, identifying usability barriers and proposing practical solutions to improve accessibility. With the user at the center of the design process, digital learning spaces can be created that welcome and empower all participants. As technology advances, with innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) becoming more prevalent in informal learning, ensuring accessibility becomes even more critical. These emerging technologies offer exciting opportunities but must be designed inclusively, enabling everyone to participate, regardless of their abilities. To better understand these challenges, I conducted one-on-one interviews with participants, exploring their learning habits, experiences with different platforms, and the difficulties they encountered. I transcribed and anonymized the data to protect participant privacy. The findings revealed several accessibility issues, including poor navigation, limited support for assistive technologies, and inconsistent application of accessibility features. Based on these findings, I propose recommendations aimed at enhancing inclusive design, user engagement, and learning outcomes. This research emphasizes the importance of accessible design in informal learning environments and advocates for platforms that are inclusive and empower all users, regardless of ability.
The MiniMuseums Companion: Designing for Interaction, Emotion and Immersive Aesthetic Experience
(2024-12) Keck, Renata Elena; Walsh, Greg; Smedley, Lauren; University of Baltimore. Division of Science, Information Arts, and Technologies.; University of Baltimore. Master of Interaction Design and Information Architecture.
This study uses Research through Design (RtD) and design probe techniques to develop an augmented reality (AR) exhibit companion for MiniMuseums, a distributed public art concept that debuted in San Francisco and Oakland, California during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the course of four months, this project culminated in developing an immersive experiential companion to the MiniMuseums exhibits using responses from a series of dialogic, time-released design probes in-situ. Qualitative interviews were conducted with three contributing MiniMuseums artists, and eight design probe participants completed a series of prescriptive and open-ended creative probe activities. Thematic analysis was carried out to identify the emotional, perceptive, and immersive qualities of interacting with art, the vehicle necessary to drive those interactions, and the minimum level of interaction required for users to consider art interactive. This studies includes the resulting design artifacts of the dialogic time-released probe series as well as findings from the research-as-documentation design process, research methods, and overall implications of the work towards multisensory interaction design.
Perceived Leader Emergence in Global Teams in Relation to Participant Satisfaction and Performance: An Exploratory Study
(2024-12-18) Jardot, Jasmyne; Glazer, Sharon; Berger, Rita; University of Baltimore. Yale Gordon College of Arts & Sciences; University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology
The current study explores the impact of perceived leader emergence on task- and socio-emotional processes, satisfaction, and performance within global virtual teams (GVTs). Drawing on Behavioral Complexity Theory, the research investigates how task processes and socio-emotional processes mediate the relationship between leader emergence and team satisfaction and performance. A correlational research design was employed, utilizing surveys administered to 162 graduate-level students enrolled in an Industrial, Work, Organizational, and Personnel Psychology program in the USA and Spain between 2015 and 2022. Analysis of the final sample of 114 participants revealed that while leader emergence did not demonstrate direct or indirect relationships with team satisfaction or performance, significant positive correlations were found between task- and socio-emotional processes and both satisfaction and performance. Notably, differences emerged based on institution of origin and modality of study, with students in the USA reporting higher leader emergence in virtual settings. The findings suggest that fostering task- and socio-emotional processes may be more critical for GVT success than leader emergence alone. Future research should further explore the accurate measurement of leader emergence and team dynamics in diverse virtual settings.
Creative Connections: Learning art direction through a collaborative card game
(2024-12-06) Bogle, Emily; Rhee, Megan; Smedley, Lauren; University of Baltimore. Yale Gordon College of Arts; University of Baltimore. Master of Fine Arts in Integrated Design
This paper examines how to help early career art directors who have a background in graphic design. For the purposes of this research, an art director is defined as the person who conceptualizes and executes a creative vision, particularly in the following industries: advertising, news and editorial, book publishing, and technology. The film and television industries have been excluded because they do not closely align with editorial or advertising art directors since many production designers also have backgrounds in architecture or set design. Their work primarily focuses on creating a set or background for actors rather than a static image. The lack of distinction between graphic design and art direction in professional settings along with a dearth of scholarship on art direction add to the opaqueness around what an art director does. Due to this lack of distinction and scholarship, there is an absence of resources in teaching or training new and emerging art directors. To address this gap, a card game where players pair up as art directors and illustrators to practice giving each other guidance and feedback in a low-pressure setting was developed. Playtester surveys demonstrate that the game has a positive effect on their self-perception of their art direction skills.
The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Employee Performance: A Field Study in the Ministry of Sports in Saudi Arabia
(2024-11) Alanazi, Fahad; Naylor, Lorenda; Henderson, Lenneal; Michael, Eleftherios; University of Baltimore. College of Public Affairs; University of Baltimore. Doctor of Public Administration
This research evaluates the impact of transformational leadership on the performance of employees in the Ministry of Sports in Saudi Arabia. The main research question explores transformational leadership and its impact on employee performance in the Saudi Ministry of Sports. Three main components are assessed: 1) the impact of charismatic leadership practices, 2) the relationship between inspiring motivation and employee performance, and 3) the role of individual consideration in employee job performance. Overall, the research asks, "How does Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Sports practice transformational leadership, and how does it influence employee performance?" A quantitative approach is utilized, as it provides a practical approach to achieving the objectives of the study. The researcher conducted an online survey for each of the selected study participants. The data collected from the study was subjected to a T-test to assess complex differences between the responses given by the study participants and ANOVA analysis of variance to test the study hypotheses. The aim of the research is to fill a management gap and provide beneficial information to decision-makers on the best leadership style to adopt for maximum productivity. In addition, this study is a scholarly resource for people interested in studying transformational leadership in Saudi Arabia.
Correlations between Twitch’s interaction features and parasocial relationships and streamer influence
(2024-08) Regelbrugge, Lani; Summers, Kathryn; Walsh, Greg; University of Baltimore. Division of Science, Information Arts and Technologies; University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture
In recent years, video live streaming has experienced a drastic rise in popularity as a form of entertainment online. One of the largest live streaming platforms is Twitch, a social media live streaming platform that is mainly centered around gaming content and is primarily used by young adults and teenagers. This study explores various interaction features on the platform (e.g. chatting, subscribing, donating) and whether these mechanisms correlate with users’ likelihood to 1) develop parasocial relationships, and/or 2) be influenced by streamers they watch. A survey was created for adult Twitch users to assess their usage behaviors, their parasocial interactions and relationships, and their tendency to be influenced by streamers. The survey received 116 complete responses. All of the interaction mechanisms examined were found to have a significant positive correlation with parasocial relationship scores, and all except one, the “follow” feature, were significantly positively correlated with streamer influence scores. Future research could examine these correlations in a larger sample size, or in a sample of Twitch users aged 13-17 to see if the effects are the same among minors.
Examining the Ecologically Valid Immersive Virtual Reality Environment’s Therapeutic Benefits
(2024-08-13) Shrestha, Sujan; Kohl, Deborah; Gasser, Courtney; McGuire, Joseph; University of Baltimore. Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences; University of Baltimore. Doctor of Science in Information and Interaction Design
This study presents intriguing research findings about using virtual reality technology to explore the relationship between imagination, memory, immersion, and interaction in the context of decision-making strategies. Specifically, it highlights the impact of perceived risk and uncertainty on rationality and addresses gaps in our understanding of this phenomenon. The study investigates the play concept as a defining characteristic of users and society, a critical theme that requires attention. It highlights the growing body of contemporary literature about the benefits of play theory in both public and scientific discourse and its potential to create more authentic, fulfilling experiences. Using game characteristics, such as action-adventure, exploration, role-playing, and strategy, in the virtual world can be an effective form of therapy, contributing to the content, depth of thinking, and range of implicit goals. Therefore, developing immersive virtual reality (IVR) environments incorporating these elements can provide a new avenue for therapeutic intervention.
Second Language Acquisition through the use of Mobile Technologies and Using Sequential Art as a Viable Resource
(2024-05) Richner, Tori; Walsh, Greg; Blodgett, Bridget; University of Baltimore. Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences; University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture
This thesis explores the integration of sequential art in Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) environments to enhance second language acquisition. Utilizing participatory design methods, the study investigates user preferences and perceptions towards integrating sequential art into language learning applications. Through a comprehensive literature review and surveys with English-speaking learners of Korean, insights were gathered to inform the design phase. Low-fidelity wireframes were developed, balancing user expectations with design principles. Findings suggest the potential of sequential art to enhance language learning experiences, offering engaging and effective pedagogical tools within MALL environments. This research contributes to understanding the nuanced intersection of sequential art and language acquisition, offering insights for future educational applications.
Enhancing Photo Capture with Mobile AR: Augmented Reality's Influence on Farsi Speakers Digital Task Completion
(2024-07-16) Keshavarz, Ghazaleh; Walsh, Greg; Kohl, Deborah; Vincenti, Giovanni; University of Baltimore. Division of Science, Information Arts, and Technology; University of Baltimore. Doctor of Science in Information and Interaction Design
In the realm of advanced computation, Augmented Reality (AR) is becoming increasingly prevalent across various academic and industrial sectors. This study addresses the notable gap in research regarding the effects of AR mobile applications on the task performance of non-native English speakers, especially in infrequent tasks. It also examines aspects like usability, benefits, limitations, and overall effectiveness of AR. Particularly, the use of AR for photo capture is highlighted as an emerging interest. Conducted with a within-subjects design, this research involved 14 adult non-native English speakers to assess their responses and engagement with AR materials. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected, analyzing metrics such as task duration, completion rates, post-test System Usability Scale (SUS) scores, and participant interviews. Results indicated a significant enhancement in the majority of the test results. Moreover, the study found that participants displayed overwhelmingly positive attitudes and high motivation towards using AR tools, underscoring the potential of AR technologies to improve user experience and task efficiency.
Elementary School Physical Education Policy and High Stakes Testing: A Childhood Obesity Study
(2024-07-13) Patterson-Askew, Jarvis; Wyatt-Nichol, Heather; University of Baltimore. College of Public Affairs; University of Baltimore. Doctor of Public Administration
This two-way methods-based study explored the connection between childhood obesity rates and state health and physical education (PE) policy. Elementary school educators and administrators from the state of Maryland participated in a virtual interview, written survey, and focus group, offering their perspectives on the PE curriculum, childhood obesity, and how education legislation frames their work. Findings from this study illustrate that respondents agree that the PE curriculum will assist children in achieving recommended physical activity levels. However, respondents express PE class time is often usurped due to the prioritization of subjects represented on standardized testing. A content analysis utilizing strata from the SHAPE 2016 Shape of the Nation, and the Council of State Governments’ 2017 reports on state health and PE policy determined that states with required PE without a mandated minimum time duration and recess have the lowest average childhood obesity rates in comparison to six other policy groups: recess recommendations, states with general activity requirements, PE with a time requirement, states without activity or physical education requirements, and states with multiple policies. Additionally, selected datapoints from the 2021 National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) were used to examine the relationships between proxy school wellness variables and childhood obesity. A multiple regression revealed that participation in physical activity had the strongest predictive relationship with state childhood obesity outcomes over: Food Insufficiency, Frequency of Days a Family Shares a Meal, and Free or Reduce-Priced School Meals. Making interventions that focus on children’s physical activity levels a viable approach to reducing childhood obesity rates.
Searching for a correlation between perceived self-efficacy and screen time.
(2024-07-03) Haversack, Wyatt; Kohl, Deborah; Blodgett, Bridget; University of Baltimore. Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences.; University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture.
This research aims to determine whether there is a correlation between screen time and perceived general self-efficacy. Prior research identifies a negative correlation between the two, and further research will contribute to the strength of that hypothesis. An analysis of internet addiction and its ties to self-efficacy was performed, and three elements were selected for testing - perceived general self-efficacy (GSE), total weekly screen time, and average daily screen time. Based on the analyses and test findings, this research demonstrates that screen time negatively correlates with perceived general self-efficacy.
Effects of Viewing Nature Images on Online Navigation in Control Group & ADHD Adults
(2024-05) Crawford, Jessica; Summers, Kathryn; Blodgett, Bridget; University of Baltimore. Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences.; Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture.
This study explores the effect of viewing digital nature imagery prior to attempting a web-based navigation task, to see if such exploration would improve the completion success rates and task speed for a group of 22 control participants and ten participants that self-identify as having ADHD. First, 110 people rated free nature images from pexel.com using the shortened version of Karpela and Hartig’s Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS). To prevent fatigue, each participant only reviewed 10 randomized images out of 50 total. In the second stage of the study, 22 additional adult control participants and 10 additional ADHD participants performed short wayfinding tasks on four websites--two photo/video e-commerce sites and two library sites. For one of the e-commerce sites and one of the library sites, participants viewed 25 nature photos before performing the wayfinding tasks. The order of the websites was randomized to limit order bias. On each website, a participant conducted a known-item search and a browsing task. Finally, participants answered brief questions about their experience post- participation. Significant differences were found in the eye movements between the control and ADHD group, as well as their calmness ratings of nature. Viewing nature also had some significant effects on task performance and efficiency for both groups, with the largest effects being seen in those with ADHD during known-item task search.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Networked Visualizations in Facilitating Information Seeking in Linked Data Enabled Information Retrieval Systems
(2024-05) Hogarth, Yannick; Summers, Kathryn; Walsh, Greg; University of Baltimore. Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences; University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture
Researchers, healthcare practitioners, and public health professionals in the life sciences domain face many challenges in navigating vast amounts of interconnected biomedical data. While most digital search systems are optimized for known-item seeking, these systems, by design, do not support information retrieval where search goals are not entirely defined, which is common in exploratory research. This thesis explores how a visualization-first approach could facilitate more intuitive and fruitful information seeking behaviors for professionals in the life sciences domain, especially individuals without advanced software engineering or data querying skills. Specifically, it investigates how different characteristics of force-directed graph visualizations of semantic data can help or hinder a user’s search experience. Leveraging visualizations to represent search systems shows promise as an easy-to-understand means to navigate complex, interconnected biomedical data, but further research is still needed to assess its effectiveness against mainstream search tools.
Habit-forming by design – an examination of TikTok's design elements that intentionally foster habit formation
(2024-05) McFarland, Leslie; Kohl, Deborah; Blodgett Ward, Bridget; University of Baltimore. Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences; University of Baltimore. Master of Science in Interaction Design and Information Architecture
This research aims to determine whether TikTok is intentionally designed to be habit-forming. Prior research identifies TikTok as “addictive” but does not explain the reasons from a design standpoint. An analysis of TikTok’s design elements was performed, and 2 elements were selected for testing – variable content and endless scroll. Testing participants indicated their triggers for using TikTok and how they felt after using it; they completed a Self-Report Habit Index (SRHI) on scrolling TikTok; and they interacted with a prototype that was similar to TikTok without variable content or endless scrolling. Based on the analyses and test findings, this research demonstrates that TikTok is intentionally designed to be habit-forming.

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