Flow - Revision history

Mbett: Reverted edits by Elenilowery (Talk); changed back to last version by Tlatoza

2011-09-02T20:29:32Z

Reverted edits by Elenilowery (Talk); changed back to last version by Tlatoza

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Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow states of students using learning systems have been measured to understand its relation to learning outcomes.

==Foundations of flow==
Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with the state of flow:

'''1. A challenging activity that requires skill'''

Flow is associated with challenging activities that requires skill to accomplish. In particular, flow occurs when the "opportunities for action perceived by the individual are equal to his or her capabilities." [1](p52). An activity too challenging leads to anxiety; not challenging enough leads to boredom.

'''2. The merging of action and awareness'''

Flow activities are associated with the complete occupation of attentional resources by the task at hand.

'''3. Clear goals and feedback'''

Individuals need clear, specific goals and feedback moment to moment on if they are being accomplished. For example, a painter might have criteria to decide, for each brush stroke, if it is good or bad.

'''4. Concentration on the task at hand'''

Individuals completely ignore any task irrelevant stimuli or recollections from memory.

'''5. The Paradox of control'''

Flow activities are associated with the perception of control rather than the actuality of control. Individuals perceive that their actions have consequences: if they act just right, they can achieve perfection. But external events may always cause this control to be imperfect.

'''6. The loss of self consciousness'''

Individuals no longer attend to their ego or engage in self scrutiny or judgments of self.

'''7. The transformation of time'''

Due to the intense concentration on the task, perceived time is no longer related to actual time.

'''8. The Autotelic experience'''

Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.

The data for results come from two types of studies. Csikszentmihalyi interviewed a huge variety of individuals and asked them to report on their most enjoyable experiences. From these retrospective accounts, he pulled out components and aspects that frequently occurred. Csikszentmihalyi also employed the experience sampling methodology in which participants were equipped with a beeper which semi-randomly went off. This triggered the participant to complete a short survey reporting on aspects of their current activity and current affect. These studies had the benefit of not being as clouded by memory biases or generalizations.

==Flow in education==
Flow has been used as a construct for understanding relationships between interventions and outcomes for students in the classroom. In particular, in a study examining the conditions in which after school activities improve students' rates of absence, suspension, and lateness and their English grades, experiencing flow during these activities made students significantly more likely to show positive outcomes [6]. Thus, flow is a useful measure of the utility of after school activities in benefiting students.

==Flow in learning systems==
More recently, studies investigating the affective state of learners using computerized learning systems and intelligent tutors have measured flow alongside other affects such as boredom, confusion, and frustration. Flow is particularly important because it is a desirable state for learners to be in. Flow has been shown to be associated with learning gains. In a study of students using Autotutor, flow was found to have a correlation with learning gains (knowledge pre and post task) of .29 [2].

However, attaining the benefits of flow requires careful design of the system to ensure students achieve flow. In a study of a hypertext learning system, students using an improved version of the system were not more likely to experience flow [8]. The authors speculate this failure could be due to the high incidence of apathy, which might have been caused by the rigid standardization of the tasks, reduced challenge, and reduced perceived skills. But flow was worth achieving in that, across all dimensions, the enjoyment and quality of the experience was highest in flow states.

==Temporal dynamics of flow in learning systems==
Flow does not necessarily persist indefinitely - it requires the right conditions to remain present. When learners were asked to report their current level of challenge and skills after each 7 subtasks using a learning system, whether or not students were in the flow zone - optimal balance between skill and challenge - fluctuated wildly with students jumping between flow, boredom, and anxiety [7]. Interestingly, these measures of flow over the course of the activities were unrelated to a final post-task assessment of enjoyment and control.

Theories of learning have postulated that the transitions between affective states are important for realizing learning gains. To empirically examine such theories, studies have examined transitions between affective states in the course of using a learning system [4][5]. Flow has been found to be a sink state - learners in flow are more likely than chance to stay in flow rather than transition to other affects. And they are unlikely to transition to boredom, confusion, or delight. Consistent with the idea that flow is associated with concentration on the task at hand, they are also less likely to game the system.

==Measuring flow==
Depending on the setting and purpose, a variety of approaches have been used to measure flow. In interviews, flow has been measured by its correspondence to the components identified by Csikszentmihalyi [1]. In experience sampling method studies, these measures have typically been less direct and focused on enjoyment of the activity rather than individual components.

There are several approaches to measuring flow in lab or field studies of learners using learning systems. One approach is to ask participants to rate their flow experiences. Studies have used methods such as rating the challenge and skills available at different points in the task [7]. Another is to have experimenters observe participants' actions and facial expressions to rate affective state, including flow [4][5]. This is usually done by sampling over a period of time to give the observer enough data to make a rating or allow them to switch between multiple participants.

To enable learning systems to use affective ratings of participants to influence their behavior, completely automated measurements of flow are desirable. To do so, both vision sensors and posture sensors recording the pressure on the seat at different points have been used. One study found posture sensors to be the most informative for detecting flow [3].

==References==
1. Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow - the psychology of optimal experience. New York, Harper.

2. Craig, S.D. (2004). Affect and learning: an exploratory look into the role of affect in learning with AutoTutor.

3. D'Mello, S., Picard, R., and Graesser, A. (2007). Towards an affect-sensitive AutoTutor. IEEE Intelligent Systems.

4. Baker, R.S.J.d., Rodrigo, M.M.T., and Xolocotzin, U.E. (2007). The dynamics of affective transitions in simulation problem-solving environments. Affective Computing and Intelligent Interaction. 666-677.

5. D'Mello, S., Taylor, R.S., and Graesser, A. (2006). Monitoring affective trajectories during complex learning.

6. Shernoff, D. J., Vandell, D. L, & Bolt, D. M. (2008). Experiences and emotions as mediators in the relationship between after-school program participation and developmental outcomes. Long-term impact and outcomes of out- of-school time programs, Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, New York, NY.

7. Pearce, J. M., Ainley, M., & Howard, S. (2005). The ebb and ﬂow of online learning. Computers in Human Behavior, 21, 745–771.

8. Konradt, U., Filip, R., and Hoffmann, S. (2003). Flow experience and positive affect during hypermedia learning. British Journal of Educational Technology, 34(3), 309-327.

Tlatoza at 07:43, 26 March 2009

2009-03-26T07:43:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:43, 26 March 2009
Line 1:		Line 1:
	Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow states of students using learning systems have been measured to understand its relation to learning outcomes.		Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow states of students using learning systems have been measured to understand its relation to learning outcomes.

	==Foundations of ~~Flow~~==		==Foundations of flow==
	Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with the state of flow:		Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with the state of flow:

Line 52:		Line 52:
	Theories of learning have postulated that the transitions between affective states are important for realizing learning gains. To empirically examine such theories, studies have examined transitions between affective states in the course of using a learning system [4][5]. Flow has been found to be a sink state - learners in flow are more likely than chance to stay in flow rather than transition to other affects. And they are unlikely to transition to boredom, confusion, or delight. Consistent with the idea that flow is associated with concentration on the task at hand, they are also less likely to game the system.		Theories of learning have postulated that the transitions between affective states are important for realizing learning gains. To empirically examine such theories, studies have examined transitions between affective states in the course of using a learning system [4][5]. Flow has been found to be a sink state - learners in flow are more likely than chance to stay in flow rather than transition to other affects. And they are unlikely to transition to boredom, confusion, or delight. Consistent with the idea that flow is associated with concentration on the task at hand, they are also less likely to game the system.

	==Measuring ~~Flow~~==		==Measuring flow==
	Depending on the setting and purpose, a variety of approaches have been used to measure flow. In interviews, flow has been measured by its correspondence to the components identified by Csikszentmihalyi [1]. In experience sampling method studies, these measures have typically been less direct and focused on enjoyment of the activity rather than individual components.		Depending on the setting and purpose, a variety of approaches have been used to measure flow. In interviews, flow has been measured by its correspondence to the components identified by Csikszentmihalyi [1]. In experience sampling method studies, these measures have typically been less direct and focused on enjoyment of the activity rather than individual components.

Tlatoza at 07:42, 26 March 2009

2009-03-26T07:42:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:42, 26 March 2009
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	==Flow in education==		==Flow in education==
	Flow has been used as a construct for understanding relationships between interventions and outcomes for students in the classroom. In particular, in a study examining the conditions in which after school activities improve students' rates of absence, suspension, and lateness and their English grades, experiencing flow during these activities made students significantly more likely to show positive outcomes [6]. Thus, flow is a useful measure of the utility of after school activities in benefiting students.		Flow has been used as a construct for understanding relationships between interventions and outcomes for students in the classroom. In particular, in a study examining the conditions in which after school activities improve students' rates of absence, suspension, and lateness and their English grades, experiencing flow during these activities made students significantly more likely to show positive outcomes [6]. Thus, flow is a useful measure of the utility of after school activities in benefiting students.


	==Flow in learning systems==		==Flow in learning systems==
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	However, attaining the benefits of flow requires careful design of the system to ensure students achieve flow. In a study of a hypertext learning system, students using an improved version of the system were not more likely to experience flow [8]. The authors speculate this failure could be due to the high incidence of apathy, which might have been caused by the rigid standardization of the tasks, reduced challenge, and reduced perceived skills. But flow was worth achieving in that, across all dimensions, the enjoyment and quality of the experience was highest in flow states.		However, attaining the benefits of flow requires careful design of the system to ensure students achieve flow. In a study of a hypertext learning system, students using an improved version of the system were not more likely to experience flow [8]. The authors speculate this failure could be due to the high incidence of apathy, which might have been caused by the rigid standardization of the tasks, reduced challenge, and reduced perceived skills. But flow was worth achieving in that, across all dimensions, the enjoyment and quality of the experience was highest in flow states.


	==Temporal dynamics of flow in learning systems==		==Temporal dynamics of flow in learning systems==
Line 53:		Line 51:

	Theories of learning have postulated that the transitions between affective states are important for realizing learning gains. To empirically examine such theories, studies have examined transitions between affective states in the course of using a learning system [4][5]. Flow has been found to be a sink state - learners in flow are more likely than chance to stay in flow rather than transition to other affects. And they are unlikely to transition to boredom, confusion, or delight. Consistent with the idea that flow is associated with concentration on the task at hand, they are also less likely to game the system.		Theories of learning have postulated that the transitions between affective states are important for realizing learning gains. To empirically examine such theories, studies have examined transitions between affective states in the course of using a learning system [4][5]. Flow has been found to be a sink state - learners in flow are more likely than chance to stay in flow rather than transition to other affects. And they are unlikely to transition to boredom, confusion, or delight. Consistent with the idea that flow is associated with concentration on the task at hand, they are also less likely to game the system.


	==Measuring Flow==		==Measuring Flow==
Line 61:		Line 58:

	To enable learning systems to use affective ratings of participants to influence their behavior, completely automated measurements of flow are desirable. To do so, both vision sensors and posture sensors recording the pressure on the seat at different points have been used. One study found posture sensors to be the most informative for detecting flow [3].		To enable learning systems to use affective ratings of participants to influence their behavior, completely automated measurements of flow are desirable. To do so, both vision sensors and posture sensors recording the pressure on the seat at different points have been used. One study found posture sensors to be the most informative for detecting flow [3].


	==References==		==References==

Tlatoza at 07:42, 26 March 2009

2009-03-26T07:42:26Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:42, 26 March 2009
Line 1:		Line 1:
	Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow states of students using learning systems have been measured to understand its relation to learning outcomes.		Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow states of students using learning systems have been measured to understand its relation to learning outcomes.


	==Foundations of Flow==		==Foundations of Flow==
	Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with the state of flow:		Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with the state of flow:


	'''1. A challenging activity that requires skill'''		'''1. A challenging activity that requires skill'''
Line 13:		Line 11:

	Flow activities are associated with the complete occupation of attentional resources by the task at hand.		Flow activities are associated with the complete occupation of attentional resources by the task at hand.


	'''3. Clear goals and feedback'''		'''3. Clear goals and feedback'''
Line 38:		Line 35:

	Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.		Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.


	The data for results come from two types of studies. Csikszentmihalyi interviewed a huge variety of individuals and asked them to report on their most enjoyable experiences. From these retrospective accounts, he pulled out components and aspects that frequently occurred. Csikszentmihalyi also employed the experience sampling methodology in which participants were equipped with a beeper which semi-randomly went off. This triggered the participant to complete a short survey reporting on aspects of their current activity and current affect. These studies had the benefit of not being as clouded by memory biases or generalizations.		The data for results come from two types of studies. Csikszentmihalyi interviewed a huge variety of individuals and asked them to report on their most enjoyable experiences. From these retrospective accounts, he pulled out components and aspects that frequently occurred. Csikszentmihalyi also employed the experience sampling methodology in which participants were equipped with a beeper which semi-randomly went off. This triggered the participant to complete a short survey reporting on aspects of their current activity and current affect. These studies had the benefit of not being as clouded by memory biases or generalizations.

Tlatoza at 07:41, 26 March 2009

2009-03-26T07:41:55Z

Tlatoza at 07:34, 26 March 2009

2009-03-26T07:34:22Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:34, 26 March 2009
Line 2:		Line 2:


	Foundations of Flow		==Foundations of Flow==
	~~----~~
	Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with being in the state of flow:		Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with being in the state of flow:

Line 41:		Line 40:
	The data for results come from two types of studies. Csikszentmihalyi interviewed a huge variety of people and asked them to report on their most enjoyable experiences. From these retrospective accounts, he pulled out components and aspects that frequently occurred. Csikszentmihalyi also employed the experience sampling methodology in which participants were equipped with a beeper which semi-randomly went off. This triggered the participant to complete a short survey, reporting on aspects of their current activity and current affect. These studies had the benefit of not being as clouded by memory biases or generalizations.		The data for results come from two types of studies. Csikszentmihalyi interviewed a huge variety of people and asked them to report on their most enjoyable experiences. From these retrospective accounts, he pulled out components and aspects that frequently occurred. Csikszentmihalyi also employed the experience sampling methodology in which participants were equipped with a beeper which semi-randomly went off. This triggered the participant to complete a short survey, reporting on aspects of their current activity and current affect. These studies had the benefit of not being as clouded by memory biases or generalizations.

	Flow in education		==Flow in education==
	~~----~~
	Flow has been used as a construct for understanding relationships between interventions and outcomes for students in the classroom. In particular, in a study examining the conditions in which after school activities improve students' rates of absence, suspension, and lateness and their English grades, experiencing flow during these activities made students significantly more likely to show positive outcomes [6]. Thus, flow is a useful measure of the utility of after school activities in benefiting students.		Flow has been used as a construct for understanding relationships between interventions and outcomes for students in the classroom. In particular, in a study examining the conditions in which after school activities improve students' rates of absence, suspension, and lateness and their English grades, experiencing flow during these activities made students significantly more likely to show positive outcomes [6]. Thus, flow is a useful measure of the utility of after school activities in benefiting students.


	Flow in learning systems		==Flow in learning systems==
	~~----~~
	More recently, studies investigating the affective state of learners using computerized learning systems and intelligent tutors have measured flow alongside other affects such as boredom, confusion, and frustration. Flow is particularly important because it is a desirable state for learners to be in. Flow has been shown to be associated with learning gains. In a study of students using Autotutor, flow was found to have a correlation with learning gains (knowledge pre / post task) of .29 [2].		More recently, studies investigating the affective state of learners using computerized learning systems and intelligent tutors have measured flow alongside other affects such as boredom, confusion, and frustration. Flow is particularly important because it is a desirable state for learners to be in. Flow has been shown to be associated with learning gains. In a study of students using Autotutor, flow was found to have a correlation with learning gains (knowledge pre / post task) of .29 [2].

Line 53:		Line 50:


	Temporal dynamics of flow in learning systems		==Temporal dynamics of flow in learning systems==
	~~----~~
	Flow does not necessarily persist indefinitely - it requires the right conditions to remain present. When learners were asked to report their current level of challenge and skills after each 7 subtasks using a learning system, whether or not students were in the flow zone - optimal balance between skill and challenge - fluctuated wildly with students jumping between flow, boredom, and anxiety [7]. Interestingly, these measures of flow over the course of the activities were unrelated to a final post task assesment of enjoyment and control.		Flow does not necessarily persist indefinitely - it requires the right conditions to remain present. When learners were asked to report their current level of challenge and skills after each 7 subtasks using a learning system, whether or not students were in the flow zone - optimal balance between skill and challenge - fluctuated wildly with students jumping between flow, boredom, and anxiety [7]. Interestingly, these measures of flow over the course of the activities were unrelated to a final post task assesment of enjoyment and control.

Line 60:		Line 56:


	Measuring Flow		==Measuring Flow==
	~~----~~
	Depending on the setting and purpose, a variety of approaches have been used for measuring flow. In interviews, flow has been measured by its correspondence to the components identified by Csikszentmihalyi [1]. In experience sampling method studies, these measures have typically been less direct and focused on enjoyment of the activity rather than individual components.		Depending on the setting and purpose, a variety of approaches have been used for measuring flow. In interviews, flow has been measured by its correspondence to the components identified by Csikszentmihalyi [1]. In experience sampling method studies, these measures have typically been less direct and focused on enjoyment of the activity rather than individual components.

Line 69:		Line 64:


	References		==References==
	~~----~~
	1. Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow - the psychology of optimal experience. New York, Harper.		1. Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow - the psychology of optimal experience. New York, Harper.

Tlatoza at 07:32, 26 March 2009

2009-03-26T07:32:37Z

Tlatoza at 07:31, 26 March 2009

2009-03-26T07:31:42Z

Tlatoza at 07:26, 26 March 2009

2009-03-26T07:26:14Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:26, 26 March 2009
Line 1:		Line 1:
	Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow has been ~~used as an~~ affective ~~state~~ of students using ITS systems.		Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow has been measured, among other affective states, of students using ITS systems.


Line 7:		Line 7:

	1. A challenging activity that requires skill		1. A challenging activity that requires skill
			Flow is associated with challenging activities that requires skill to accomplish. In particular, flow occurs when the "opportunities for action perceived by the individual are equal to his or her capabilities." [1](p52). An activity too challenging leads to anxiety; not challegning enough leads to boredeom.

			2. The merging of action and awareness
			Flow activities are associated with complete occupation of attentional resources in the task at hand in the form of high concentration.

			3. Clear goals and feedback
			Individuals need clear, specific goals and feedback moment to moment on if they are being accomplished. For example, a paint might have criteria to decide, for each brush stroke, if it is good or bad.

	2.		4. Concentration on the task at hand
			Individuals completely ignore any task irrelevant stimuli or recollections from memory.

			5. The Paradox of control
			Flow activities are associated with the perception of control rather than the actuality of control. Individuals perceive that their actions have consequences: if they act just right, they can achieve perfection. But external events may always cause this control to be imperfect.

			6. The loss of self consciousness
			Individuals no longer attend to their ego or engage in self scrutiny or judgements of self.

			7. The transformation of time
			Due to the intense concentration on the task, perceived time is no longer related to actual time.

			8. The Autotelic experience
			Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.

	Flow in ~~ITS Systems~~		The data for results come from two types of studies. Csikszentmihalyi interviewed a huge variety of people and asked them to report on their most enjoyable experiences. From these retrospective accounts, he pulled out components and aspects that frequently occurred. Csikszentmihalyi also employed the experience sampling methodology in which participants were equipped with a beeper which semi-randomly went off. This triggered the participant to complete a short survey, reporting on aspects of their current activity and current affect. These studies had the benefit of not being as clouded by memory biases or generalizations.

			Flow in education
	----		----
			Flow has been used as a construct for understanding relationships between interventions and outcomes for students in the classroom. In particular, in a study examining the conditions in which after school activities improve students' rates of absence, suspension, and lateness and their English grades, experiencing flow during these activities made students significantly more likely to show positive outcomes [6]. Thus, flow is a useful measure of the utility of after school activities in benefiting students.


	Flow ~~over time~~ in ~~ITS Systems~~		Flow in learning systems
	----		----
			More recently, studies investigating the affective state of learners using computerized learning systems and intelligent tutors have measured flow alongside other affects such as boredom, confusion, and frustration. Flow is particularly important because it is a desirable state for learners to be in. Flow has been shown to be associated with learning gains. In a study of students using Autotutor, flow was found to have a correlation with learning gains (knowledge pre / post task) of .29 [2].

			However, attaining the benefits of flow requires careful design of the system to ensure students achieve flow. In a study of a hypertext learning system, students using an improved version of the system were not more likely to experience flow [8]. The authors speculate this failure could be due to the high incidence of apathy, which might have been caused by the rigid standardization of the tasks, reduced challenge, and reduced perceived skills. But flow was worth achieving in that, across all dimensions, the enjoyment and quality of the experience was highest in flow states.


			Temporal dynamics of flow in learning systems
			----
			Flow does not necessarily persist indefinitely - it requires the right conditions to remain present. When learners were asked to report their current level of challenge and skills after each 7 subtasks using a learning system, whether or not students were in the flow zone - optimal balance between skill and challenge - fluctuated wildly with students jumping between flow, boredom, and anxiety [7]. Interestingly, these measures of flow over the course of the activities were unrelated to a final post task assesment of enjoyment and control.

			Theories of learning have postulated that



Line 27:		Line 55:
	Measuring Flow		Measuring Flow
	----		----
			Depending on the setting and purpose, a variety of approaches have been used for measuring flow. In interviews, flow has been measured by its correspondence to the components identified by Csikszentmihalyi [1]. In experience sampling method studies, these measures have typically been less direct and focused on enjoyment of the activity rather than individual components.

			There are several approaches to measuring flow in lab or field studies of learners using learning systems. One approach is to ask participants to rate their flow experiences. Studies have used methods such as rating the challenge and skills available at different points in the task [7]. Another is to have experimenters observe participants' actions and facial expressions to rate affective state, including flow [4][5]. This is usually done by sampling over a period of time to give the observer enough data to make a rating or allow them to switch between multiple participants.

			To enable learning systems to use affective ratings of participants to influence their behavior, completely automated measurements of flow are desirable. To do so, both vision sensors and posture sensors recording the pressure on the seat at different points have been used. One study found posture sensors to be the most informative for detecting flow [3].


Line 34:		Line 65:
	----		----
	1. Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow - the psychology of optimal experience. New York, Harper.		1. Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow - the psychology of optimal experience. New York, Harper.

	2. Craig, S.D. (2004). Affect and learning: an exploratory look into the role of affect in learning with AutoTutor.		2. Craig, S.D. (2004). Affect and learning: an exploratory look into the role of affect in learning with AutoTutor.

	3. D'Mello, S., Picard, R., and Graesser, A. (2007). Towards an affect-sensitive AutoTutor. IEEE Intelligent Systems.		3. D'Mello, S., Picard, R., and Graesser, A. (2007). Towards an affect-sensitive AutoTutor. IEEE Intelligent Systems.

	4. Baker, R.S.J.d., Rodrigo, M.M.T., and Xolocotzin, U.E. (2007). The dynamics of affective transitions in simulation problem-solving environments. Affective Computing and Intelligent Interaction. 666-677.		4. Baker, R.S.J.d., Rodrigo, M.M.T., and Xolocotzin, U.E. (2007). The dynamics of affective transitions in simulation problem-solving environments. Affective Computing and Intelligent Interaction. 666-677.

	5. D'Mello, S., Taylor, R.S., and Graesser, A. (2006). Monitoring affective trajectories during complex learning.		5. D'Mello, S., Taylor, R.S., and Graesser, A. (2006). Monitoring affective trajectories during complex learning.

	6. Shernoff, D. J., Vandell, D. L, & Bolt, D. M. (2008). Experiences and emotions as mediators in the relationship between after-school program participation and developmental outcomes. Long-term impact and outcomes of out- of-school time programs, Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, New York, NY.		6. Shernoff, D. J., Vandell, D. L, & Bolt, D. M. (2008). Experiences and emotions as mediators in the relationship between after-school program participation and developmental outcomes. Long-term impact and outcomes of out- of-school time programs, Symposium conducted at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, New York, NY.

	7. Pearce, J. M., Ainley, M., & Howard, S. (2005). The ebb and ﬂow of online learning. Computers in Human Behavior, 21, 745–771.		7. Pearce, J. M., Ainley, M., & Howard, S. (2005). The ebb and ﬂow of online learning. Computers in Human Behavior, 21, 745–771.

	8. Konradt, U., Filip, R., and Hoffmann, S. (2003). Flow experience and positive affect during hypermedia learning. British Journal of Educational Technology, 34(3), 309-327.		8. Konradt, U., Filip, R., and Hoffmann, S. (2003). Flow experience and positive affect during hypermedia learning. British Journal of Educational Technology, 34(3), 309-327.

Tlatoza: New page: Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1...

2009-03-26T04:55:46Z

New page: Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1...

New page

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:41, 26 March 2009
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	Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow ~~has been measured, among other affective~~ states, of students using ~~ITS~~ systems.		Flow is the affective state of optimal experience that creates pleasure by balancing the challenge of the task at hand to the skills of the person. Originally discovered and popularized [1] by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi ("chick-sent-me-high-ee"), flow has been studied across diverse tasks ranging from athletics to learning by students to games. More recently, flow states of students using learning systems have been measured to understand its relation to learning outcomes.


	==Foundations of Flow==		==Foundations of Flow==
	Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with ~~being in~~ the state of flow:		Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with the state of flow:


	'''1. A challenging activity that requires skill'''		'''1. A challenging activity that requires skill'''

	Flow is associated with challenging activities that requires skill to accomplish. In particular, flow occurs when the "opportunities for action perceived by the individual are equal to his or her capabilities." [1](p52). An activity too challenging leads to anxiety; not ~~challegning~~ enough leads to ~~boredeom~~.		Flow is associated with challenging activities that requires skill to accomplish. In particular, flow occurs when the "opportunities for action perceived by the individual are equal to his or her capabilities." [1](p52). An activity too challenging leads to anxiety; not challenging enough leads to boredom.

	'''2. The merging of action and awareness'''		'''2. The merging of action and awareness'''

	Flow activities are associated with complete occupation of attentional resources in the task at hand ~~in the form of high concentration~~.		Flow activities are associated with the complete occupation of attentional resources by the task at hand.


	'''3. Clear goals and feedback'''		'''3. Clear goals and feedback'''

	Individuals need clear, specific goals and feedback moment to moment on if they are being accomplished. For example, a ~~paint~~ might have criteria to decide, for each brush stroke, if it is good or bad.		Individuals need clear, specific goals and feedback moment to moment on if they are being accomplished. For example, a painter might have criteria to decide, for each brush stroke, if it is good or bad.

	'''4. Concentration on the task at hand'''		'''4. Concentration on the task at hand'''
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	'''6. The loss of self consciousness'''		'''6. The loss of self consciousness'''

	Individuals no longer attend to their ego or engage in self scrutiny or ~~judgements~~ of self.		Individuals no longer attend to their ego or engage in self scrutiny or judgments of self.

	'''7. The transformation of time'''		'''7. The transformation of time'''
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	Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.		Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.

	The data for results come from two types of studies. Csikszentmihalyi interviewed a huge variety of ~~people~~ and asked them to report on their most enjoyable experiences. From these retrospective accounts, he pulled out components and aspects that frequently occurred. Csikszentmihalyi also employed the experience sampling methodology in which participants were equipped with a beeper which semi-randomly went off. This triggered the participant to complete a short survey, reporting on aspects of their current activity and current affect. These studies had the benefit of not being as clouded by memory biases or generalizations.		The data for results come from two types of studies. Csikszentmihalyi interviewed a huge variety of individuals and asked them to report on their most enjoyable experiences. From these retrospective accounts, he pulled out components and aspects that frequently occurred. Csikszentmihalyi also employed the experience sampling methodology in which participants were equipped with a beeper which semi-randomly went off. This triggered the participant to complete a short survey reporting on aspects of their current activity and current affect. These studies had the benefit of not being as clouded by memory biases or generalizations.

	==Flow in education==		==Flow in education==
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	==Flow in learning systems==		==Flow in learning systems==
	More recently, studies investigating the affective state of learners using computerized learning systems and intelligent tutors have measured flow alongside other affects such as boredom, confusion, and frustration. Flow is particularly important because it is a desirable state for learners to be in. Flow has been shown to be associated with learning gains. In a study of students using Autotutor, flow was found to have a correlation with learning gains (knowledge pre / post task) of .29 [2].		More recently, studies investigating the affective state of learners using computerized learning systems and intelligent tutors have measured flow alongside other affects such as boredom, confusion, and frustration. Flow is particularly important because it is a desirable state for learners to be in. Flow has been shown to be associated with learning gains. In a study of students using Autotutor, flow was found to have a correlation with learning gains (knowledge pre and post task) of .29 [2].

	However, attaining the benefits of flow requires careful design of the system to ensure students achieve flow. In a study of a hypertext learning system, students using an improved version of the system were not more likely to experience flow [8]. The authors speculate this failure could be due to the high incidence of apathy, which might have been caused by the rigid standardization of the tasks, reduced challenge, and reduced perceived skills. But flow was worth achieving in that, across all dimensions, the enjoyment and quality of the experience was highest in flow states.		However, attaining the benefits of flow requires careful design of the system to ensure students achieve flow. In a study of a hypertext learning system, students using an improved version of the system were not more likely to experience flow [8]. The authors speculate this failure could be due to the high incidence of apathy, which might have been caused by the rigid standardization of the tasks, reduced challenge, and reduced perceived skills. But flow was worth achieving in that, across all dimensions, the enjoyment and quality of the experience was highest in flow states.
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	==Temporal dynamics of flow in learning systems==		==Temporal dynamics of flow in learning systems==
	Flow does not necessarily persist indefinitely - it requires the right conditions to remain present. When learners were asked to report their current level of challenge and skills after each 7 subtasks using a learning system, whether or not students were in the flow zone - optimal balance between skill and challenge - fluctuated wildly with students jumping between flow, boredom, and anxiety [7]. Interestingly, these measures of flow over the course of the activities were unrelated to a final post task ~~assesment~~ of enjoyment and control.		Flow does not necessarily persist indefinitely - it requires the right conditions to remain present. When learners were asked to report their current level of challenge and skills after each 7 subtasks using a learning system, whether or not students were in the flow zone - optimal balance between skill and challenge - fluctuated wildly with students jumping between flow, boredom, and anxiety [7]. Interestingly, these measures of flow over the course of the activities were unrelated to a final post-task assessment of enjoyment and control.

	Theories of learning have postulated that the transitions between affective states are important for realizing learning gains. To empirically examine such theories, studies have examined transitions between affective states in the course of using a learning system [4][5]. Flow has been found to be a sink state - learners in flow are more likely than chance to stay in flow rather than transition to other affects. And they are unlikely to transition to boredom, confusion, or delight. Consistent with the idea that flow is associated with concentration on the task at hand, they are also less likely to game the system.		Theories of learning have postulated that the transitions between affective states are important for realizing learning gains. To empirically examine such theories, studies have examined transitions between affective states in the course of using a learning system [4][5]. Flow has been found to be a sink state - learners in flow are more likely than chance to stay in flow rather than transition to other affects. And they are unlikely to transition to boredom, confusion, or delight. Consistent with the idea that flow is associated with concentration on the task at hand, they are also less likely to game the system.
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	==Measuring Flow==		==Measuring Flow==
	Depending on the setting and purpose, a variety of approaches have been used ~~for measuring~~ flow. In interviews, flow has been measured by its correspondence to the components identified by Csikszentmihalyi [1]. In experience sampling method studies, these measures have typically been less direct and focused on enjoyment of the activity rather than individual components.		Depending on the setting and purpose, a variety of approaches have been used to measure flow. In interviews, flow has been measured by its correspondence to the components identified by Csikszentmihalyi [1]. In experience sampling method studies, these measures have typically been less direct and focused on enjoyment of the activity rather than individual components.

	There are several approaches to measuring flow in lab or field studies of learners using learning systems. One approach is to ask participants to rate their flow experiences. Studies have used methods such as rating the challenge and skills available at different points in the task [7]. Another is to have experimenters observe participants' actions and facial expressions to rate affective state, including flow [4][5]. This is usually done by sampling over a period of time to give the observer enough data to make a rating or allow them to switch between multiple participants.		There are several approaches to measuring flow in lab or field studies of learners using learning systems. One approach is to ask participants to rate their flow experiences. Studies have used methods such as rating the challenge and skills available at different points in the task [7]. Another is to have experimenters observe participants' actions and facial expressions to rate affective state, including flow [4][5]. This is usually done by sampling over a period of time to give the observer enough data to make a rating or allow them to switch between multiple participants.

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:32, 26 March 2009
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	Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with being in the state of flow:		Flow, as originally formulated by Csikszentmihalyi and described in his book [1], has 8 components that are highly associated with being in the state of flow:

	1. A challenging activity that requires skill
			'''1. A challenging activity that requires skill'''

	Flow is associated with challenging activities that requires skill to accomplish. In particular, flow occurs when the "opportunities for action perceived by the individual are equal to his or her capabilities." [1](p52). An activity too challenging leads to anxiety; not challegning enough leads to boredeom.		Flow is associated with challenging activities that requires skill to accomplish. In particular, flow occurs when the "opportunities for action perceived by the individual are equal to his or her capabilities." [1](p52). An activity too challenging leads to anxiety; not challegning enough leads to boredeom.

	2. The merging of action and awareness		'''2. The merging of action and awareness'''

	Flow activities are associated with complete occupation of attentional resources in the task at hand in the form of high concentration.		Flow activities are associated with complete occupation of attentional resources in the task at hand in the form of high concentration.

	3. Clear goals and feedback		'''3. Clear goals and feedback'''

	Individuals need clear, specific goals and feedback moment to moment on if they are being accomplished. For example, a paint might have criteria to decide, for each brush stroke, if it is good or bad.		Individuals need clear, specific goals and feedback moment to moment on if they are being accomplished. For example, a paint might have criteria to decide, for each brush stroke, if it is good or bad.

	4. Concentration on the task at hand		'''4. Concentration on the task at hand'''

	Individuals completely ignore any task irrelevant stimuli or recollections from memory.		Individuals completely ignore any task irrelevant stimuli or recollections from memory.

	5. The Paradox of control		'''5. The Paradox of control'''

	Flow activities are associated with the perception of control rather than the actuality of control. Individuals perceive that their actions have consequences: if they act just right, they can achieve perfection. But external events may always cause this control to be imperfect.		Flow activities are associated with the perception of control rather than the actuality of control. Individuals perceive that their actions have consequences: if they act just right, they can achieve perfection. But external events may always cause this control to be imperfect.

	6. The loss of self consciousness		'''6. The loss of self consciousness'''

	Individuals no longer attend to their ego or engage in self scrutiny or judgements of self.		Individuals no longer attend to their ego or engage in self scrutiny or judgements of self.

	7. The transformation of time		'''7. The transformation of time'''

	Due to the intense concentration on the task, perceived time is no longer related to actual time.		Due to the intense concentration on the task, perceived time is no longer related to actual time.

	8. The Autotelic experience		'''8. The Autotelic experience'''

	Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.		Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:31, 26 March 2009
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	1. A challenging activity that requires skill		1. A challenging activity that requires skill

	Flow is associated with challenging activities that requires skill to accomplish. In particular, flow occurs when the "opportunities for action perceived by the individual are equal to his or her capabilities." [1](p52). An activity too challenging leads to anxiety; not challegning enough leads to boredeom.		Flow is associated with challenging activities that requires skill to accomplish. In particular, flow occurs when the "opportunities for action perceived by the individual are equal to his or her capabilities." [1](p52). An activity too challenging leads to anxiety; not challegning enough leads to boredeom.

	2. The merging of action and awareness		2. The merging of action and awareness

	Flow activities are associated with complete occupation of attentional resources in the task at hand in the form of high concentration.		Flow activities are associated with complete occupation of attentional resources in the task at hand in the form of high concentration.

	3. Clear goals and feedback		3. Clear goals and feedback

	Individuals need clear, specific goals and feedback moment to moment on if they are being accomplished. For example, a paint might have criteria to decide, for each brush stroke, if it is good or bad.		Individuals need clear, specific goals and feedback moment to moment on if they are being accomplished. For example, a paint might have criteria to decide, for each brush stroke, if it is good or bad.

	4. Concentration on the task at hand		4. Concentration on the task at hand

	Individuals completely ignore any task irrelevant stimuli or recollections from memory.		Individuals completely ignore any task irrelevant stimuli or recollections from memory.

	5. The Paradox of control		5. The Paradox of control

	Flow activities are associated with the perception of control rather than the actuality of control. Individuals perceive that their actions have consequences: if they act just right, they can achieve perfection. But external events may always cause this control to be imperfect.		Flow activities are associated with the perception of control rather than the actuality of control. Individuals perceive that their actions have consequences: if they act just right, they can achieve perfection. But external events may always cause this control to be imperfect.

	6. The loss of self consciousness		6. The loss of self consciousness

	Individuals no longer attend to their ego or engage in self scrutiny or judgements of self.		Individuals no longer attend to their ego or engage in self scrutiny or judgements of self.

	7. The transformation of time		7. The transformation of time

	Due to the intense concentration on the task, perceived time is no longer related to actual time.		Due to the intense concentration on the task, perceived time is no longer related to actual time.

	8. The Autotelic experience		8. The Autotelic experience

	Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.		Flow activities are intrinsically rewarding - doing the activity itself is the reward, not reinforcement after the task (e.g., money). Individuals engage in flow activities for the sake of engaging in flow activities.

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	Flow does not necessarily persist indefinitely - it requires the right conditions to remain present. When learners were asked to report their current level of challenge and skills after each 7 subtasks using a learning system, whether or not students were in the flow zone - optimal balance between skill and challenge - fluctuated wildly with students jumping between flow, boredom, and anxiety [7]. Interestingly, these measures of flow over the course of the activities were unrelated to a final post task assesment of enjoyment and control.		Flow does not necessarily persist indefinitely - it requires the right conditions to remain present. When learners were asked to report their current level of challenge and skills after each 7 subtasks using a learning system, whether or not students were in the flow zone - optimal balance between skill and challenge - fluctuated wildly with students jumping between flow, boredom, and anxiety [7]. Interestingly, these measures of flow over the course of the activities were unrelated to a final post task assesment of enjoyment and control.

	Theories of learning have postulated that		Theories of learning have postulated that the transitions between affective states are important for realizing learning gains. To empirically examine such theories, studies have examined transitions between affective states in the course of using a learning system [4][5]. Flow has been found to be a sink state - learners in flow are more likely than chance to stay in flow rather than transition to other affects. And they are unlikely to transition to boredom, confusion, or delight. Consistent with the idea that flow is associated with concentration on the task at hand, they are also less likely to game the system.