Testing the METUX Model in Higher Education: Interface and Task Need–Satisfaction Predict Engagement, Learning, and Well-Being

Abstract

The main aim of this study is to test the validity of the Motivation, Engagement, and Thriving in User Experience (METUX) model (Peters et al., 2018) in higher education. We propose a process model in which we investigate how the need-satisfaction of digital learning tools within the interface sphere and task sphere accounts for engagement, learning, and well-being. A total of 426 higher education students drawn from two subsamples participated in this cross-sectional study. A structural equation model shows that interface autonomy and competence satisfaction positively predict task autonomy and competence. Task competence, in turn, negatively predicts focused attention and positively predicts perceived usability and well-being. Task autonomy positively predicts perceived usability and reward. Based on our results, we provide some initial support for the METUX model in higher education. However, more validation work is needed to improve the scale that measures need-satisfaction in the interface and task spheres. Moreover, we find no support for the effect of task sphere on learning. Further investigations are needed into how METUX can be used in domain- and situation-specific contexts to account for increases in engagement, learning, and well-being. Finally, future studies need to include all aspects of the METUX model in order to fully test its validity.

Human drone interaction in delivery of medical supplies: A scoping review of experimental studies

“…These determinants are in turn influenced by individual differences, system characteristics, social influences, and facilitating conditions [ 35 ] and can be enhanced through increased experience and knowledge [ 34 ]. However, task competence and task autonomy is shown to predict perceived usability implying the impact of psychological factors [ 36 ]. From this perspective, three universal and basic psychology needs (autonomy, competences, and relatedness) are assumed to be necessary for optimal human functioning [ 37 ].…”

Off-World Mental Health: Considerations for the Design of Well-being–Supportive Technologies for Deep Space Exploration

“…In support of the METUX model, emerging evidence suggests that consideration of basic psychological needs can foster user engagement [ 46 ], enjoyment, and motivation [ 47 ], improve learning [ 48 ], and contribute to mental health and well-being [ 49 ]. In keeping with these findings, recent evidence from Mars isolation and confinement experiments indicates that when basic psychological needs are fulfilled, crew members report better quality motivation and happiness, are less stressed, work more cooperatively, engage in less oppositional defiance, and perform to a higher standard [ 50 ].…”

Offworld Mental Health: Considerations For The Design Of Well-Being Supportive Technologies For Deep Space Exploration

“…In support of the METUX model, emerging evidence suggests that consideration of basic psychological needs can foster user engagement 42 , enjoyment, and motivation 43 , improve learning 44 , and contribute to mental health and wellbeing 45 . In keeping with these findings, recent evidence from Mars isolation and confinement experiments indicates that when basic psychological needs are fulfilled, crew members report better quality motivation and happiness, are less stressed, work more cooperatively, engage in less oppositional defiance, and perform to a higher standard 46 .…”