Using persuasive system design principles to evaluate two next generation digital learning environment

The landscape of higher education is shifting as the expectations of modern students move towards increased integration of digital technology in their learning environments. As such, there is a strong need for Next Generation Digital Learning Environments (NGDLEs). Two examples of NGDLEs are Motivational Active Learning (MAL) and Task-Test-Monitor (TTM). Each was designed with a foundation of established learning theories. For these systems to be effective in improving student motivation and engagement however, they need to be persuasive. In this study, we evaluate the inherent persuasion of these two NGDLEs using the Persuasive Systems Design framework. The results show that MAL features more persuasive system characteristics than TTM. However, both are likely to persuade students. MAL's use of gamifica- tion adds a considerable amount of persuasiveness by leveraging social support, and provided justification for future NGDLEs to follow a similar path. This could lead to improvements in the design of e-learning systems in general.