Date of Award:

8-2021

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences

Committee Chair(s)

Kristy Bloxham

Committee

Kristy Bloxham

Committee

Jody Clarke-Midura

Committee

Kristin Searle

Abstract

This research examined the extent to which group membership affects the impact of text message activity prompts on daily step count. Two 17-member convenience samples were recruited from various software companies in Utah. The participants in the cohesive group unit sample worked in close proximity to one another in a single office, while the lone participants were recruited from and worked in separate offices. Participants’ daily step count baselines were established during the initial 2 weeks of the experiment, after which they were sent text message activity prompts twice per workweek day for the remaining 4 weeks. Step count data were monitored using digital wristband pedometers.

Statistical analyses, interviews, and surveys were conducted after the experiment was completed, and evidence supporting the idea that group membership increases the effectiveness of persuasive technology was found. These findings suggest office-based exercise programs utilizing persuasive technology in conjunction with group membership may be more effective than approaches without a social component.

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