The application deadline for the following IS master project has been extended: 

The global climate disruption’s effects have become increasingly imminent. Ocean and atmospheric temperatures are constantly increasing, causing glaciers to melt and sea levels to rise. This not only endangers coastal areas, but – with sea levels rising further – even entire countries in the long run. It also leads to the melting of the permafrost, and the consequent release of encapsulated greenhouse gases, which in turn results in the atmospheric temperatures rising further. 

The origins and causes of this development can largely be traced back to human (consumption) behaviors. Behaving non-ecologically – though partially unintended – is often perceived as easier and seems to come with fewer hassle. Using to-go mugs, for instance, is perceived as less stressful than packing a travel mug. Since this behavior not only concerns single individuals, but a large percentage of society, it ultimately becomes an issue for the natural environment. Consequently, 2.8 billion to-go mugs are annually used in Germany. Their production requires the felling of 43,000 trees, consumes 1.5 billion liters of fresh water, and releases 83,000 tons of CO2. 

Everyone can contribute to addressing the global climate disruption. It often only takes small suggestions, or gentle hints to remind and steer people toward alternative and more eco-sustainable behaviors. In IS research these hints and reminders are called nudges and can come in both analog (e.g. signs, sounds) and digital forms (e.g. icons, pop-up messages). To achieve their maximal influencing potential, they are also often tailored to a person’s behavior or personality (e.g. by analyzing user preferences). This IS project seeks to take up these insights and investigate how nudges can be used to influence people toward increased pro-environmental behavior. 

Specifically, this IS project asks students to i) design nudges that respect and address a person’s personality ii) design and develop a mobile app so that these nudges can be delivered to app users to influence them toward more pro-environmental behavior. 

This (Master) project is, consequently, of interest for students who want to learn more about human personalities and characteristics, or who want to develop an app for mobile devices aimed at stimulating more pro-environmental behavior in its users. It may also be of interest to students who want to learn more about their own personality and reflect on their (ecological) behavior 

If you are interested in this IS project, please apply until November 8th, 2020 (23:59). 

Further information can be found in the project description.