Lee visited St. Gallen and happily mentioned to the audience her projects build on work from here. Since Covid, much learning runs through LMS – Learning Management Systems. In these platforms, small design choices matter. A digital nudge is one of those choices: a reminder, a comparison, a default, a framing tweak, or a visual cue.

Key findings

• No one-size-fits-all. Newer students like short, simple prompts. Experienced learners prefer structured, information-rich supports for slower, deliberate (System 2) thinking.
• Procrastination is stubborn. Friendly pings did little. Things moved when there was slight friction – a touch of discomfort or real urgency. Without it, not much happens.
• GenAI fact-checking works better with autonomy than scolding. Know-how prompts (how to check, where to check) beat generic “please check” reminders. In Self-Determination Theory terms: choice, competence, control.
• Social comparisons underperformed. Avatars helped more, but keep them non-human. Animals and similar guides were preferred. Best of all, let students customise the avatar.
• Don’t overdo it. Over-nudging leads to fatigue and quick dismissals.

Her projects in a line

Tackling procrastination and improving GenAI fact-checking. Both need tailored nudges: slight negative affect for procrastination; concrete how-to steps for verification.