Molly Stewart

Topic

Designing and Evaluating Text and Image-Based Digital Supports for Savouring Positive Work Experiences

Department of Computer Science

Date & location

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Sowmya Somanath, Department of Computer Science, University of Victoria (Supervisor)
• Dr. Anthony Tang, School of Computing and Information Systems, Singapore Management University (Outside Member)

External Examiner

• Dr. Jane E, Department of Computer Science, National University of Singapore

Chair of Oral Examination

• Prof. Merrie Klazek, School of Music, UVic

Abstract

Savouring positive work experiences can promote positive affect and well-being at work, yet there is limited guidance on how digital applications can support workers to engage in savouring. We developed HappyCal, a work-focused savouring application offering two forms of savouring support: text-based, a common modality in workplace reflection tools, and images, a largely unexplored approach in work-related savouring. We conducted an exploratory qualitative study where participants (N=36) used HappyCal over five days and engaged in savouring through either a text-only modality (n=17) or text input paired with image output (n=19). We found that (1) participants in both groups reported heightened awareness of work-related emotions through positive reflection, (2) Text-based support fostered conscious emotional processing, while image-based support offered quick overviews and amplified the positive experience, and (3) image-based support introduced a sense of playfulness into savouring. Informed by our results, we discuss implications for designing savouring supporting technologies for work contexts.