Thesis (MSc) - Cyprus International University. Institute of Graduate Studies and Research Management Information Systems(MIS)

Wearable technologies are extensively changing how people connect to the world. From fitness trackers to smartwatches these devices are gaining popularity among consumers. However, it's not just for personal use; wearable technologies also have the potential to revolutionize higher education. The study sought to evaluate the engagement levels of higher education students in different educational contexts, particularly a traditional class settings and during project presentation.
There is a limited amount of research measuring situational engagement in a real class higher education setting, hence the need and motivation for the study. In the study, we utilized the HW16 smartwatch as the main instrument for collecting data. The metrics for data collection was narrowed down to mainly the heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen (SpO2), and fatigue, to suite the study’s purpose. It involved 29 participants, and statistical analysis.
The findings of this research report indicated or suggested that students in interactive class settings showed higher levels of engagement compared to when they were presenting a project. This was evident from the data collected. Additionally, the study found that students experienced higher levels of fatigue during project presentations and traditional lecture-style classes, indicating a potential link between fatigue and decreased engagement. In summary, the research highlights the importance of considering situational factors in understanding student engagement in higher education.