Investigating the effects of gamification affordances on users’ green intrinsic motivation: a cognitive evaluation perspective
Industrial Management & Data Systems
ISSN: 0263-5577
Article publication date: 16 February 2024
Issue publication date: 12 April 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Based on cognitive evaluation theory and gamification affordances, this study aims to understand how gamification affordances influence users’ intention to engage in sustainable behaviour and how new trends in Ant Forest influence its impact on green intrinsic motivation to support sustainable behaviours.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors developed a research model to explore the mechanisms underlying gamification affordances, psychological needs and green intrinsic motivation. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to assess the survey data (n = 393) and test the research model.
Findings
The results show that different gamification affordances can satisfy users’ needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness, which positively influences their green intrinsic motivation and engagement in sustainable behaviours. However, some affordances, such as competition, might negatively impact these psychological needs.
Originality/value
This research updates information system research on environmental sustainability and the Ant Forest context. The authors provide a new framework that links gamification affordances, psychological needs and sustainable behaviour. The study also examines changing trends in Ant Forest and their implications.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was supported by the National Social Science Foundation of China, grant number 22BGJ037; the Zhejiang Provincial Federation of Social Sciences, grant number 2023N009; the Humanities and Social Sciences Research Project of Zhejiang Provincial Department of Education, grant number Y202248811; the Zhejiang University of Technology Humanities and Social Sciences Pre-Research Fund Project, grant number SKY-ZX-20210175; and China’s National Undergraduate Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program, grant number 202210337052.
Citation
Cheng, S. and Cao, C. (2024), "Investigating the effects of gamification affordances on users’ green intrinsic motivation: a cognitive evaluation perspective", Industrial Management & Data Systems, Vol. 124 No. 4, pp. 1437-1462. https://doi.org/10.1108/IMDS-12-2022-0753
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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