Area of research expertise

My interests and expertise lie in the areas of human cognition, learning, communication and motivation and the application of these to computer games and digital media. In the CHERMUG project we developed a game to support students in learning research methods and statistics.

Current research activities

My current research activities are related to the YOUTHYES project which aims to design, develop and test a game to support young people in their career decision making. We are currently evaluating the game in the partner countries: Scotland, England, the Netherlands, Iceland and Romania.

I am also carrying out research on psychological aspects of Facebook use, most recently looking at social dimensions of personality, such as shyness, social anxiety, social comparison and Facebook behaviours.

Desired research Activities

Given recent increases in depression and anxiety in young women, I would be interested in looking at the possible role of social media in this. I am also interested in applying ideas developed in the games projects to other domains.

Target Collaborative Organisations

I have previously worked with European partners, both academics, games companies and NGOs and would hope to do so again.

Other areas of expertise available for knowledge exchange

Designing computer games; Structural equation modelling

Keywords

Serious games, engagement, motivation

Contact details

Tel: 0141 848 3783; email:liz.boyle@uws.ac.uk