Xiphias: Using a Multidimensional Approach towards Creating Meaningful Gamification-Based Badge Mechanics

Abstract

This paper shows the design and initial testing of three new Xiphias Badges -- Presence, Mastery, and Antifragility – based on the merging of the salient features from James Clear’s Behavior Change model (2016), Johann Hari’s Lost Connections model (2018), and Jordan Peterson’s recent interpretation of the Big Five model of Personality Traits (2007). This multidimensional approach is an attempt to cater to the multidimensionality of a user and aims to be a more universal gamification approach that taps into internal motivations. The badge mechanics were tested on 69 undergraduate students using a Low-Fidelity Gamified Tracker. The results of a survey that sought their insights on the utility of the badges showed their potential to be motivating factors in the classroom.