Thesis Proposal Generator

The persistent challenge of student attrition and low participation rates in online university courses necessitates innovative pedagogical interventions. This study addresses the gap in understanding the causal efficacy of non-financial gamified elements (e.g., badges, leaderboards) on intrinsic student motivation and measurable time-on-task within asynchronous learning environments.

Primary Research Question: To what extent do leaderboards influence the submission frequency of non-graded assignments among undergraduate students? Theoretical Framework: This research will be grounded in Self-Determination Theory (SDT), specifically assessing how gamification satisfies basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, leading to increased internalized motivation (Ryan & Deci, 2000).

Research Design: A quasi-experimental mixed-methods design involving a treatment group (gamified platform) and a control group (standard platform) over one 15-week semester. Data Collection and Analysis: Quantitative data (time-on-task, completion rates) will be analyzed using ANOVA. Qualitative data will be collected via post-intervention focus groups to contextualize behavioral changes.

Project Duration:

Phase	Start	End
Literature Review & Ethics
Data Collection
Analysis & Writing

Estimated Budget/Resource Needs: Licensing for Qualtrics survey software and transcription services for focus groups.