Practical Seminar Content

Problem Description: Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985) defines human motivation as driven by the needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness. In software engineering, motivation is central to productivity, quality, and collaboration, yet it is often studied through narrower constructs such as job satisfaction or burnout. Although SDT has been widely applied in education and organizational psychology, its use in software engineering research is limited and conceptually fragmented. A systematic review of how SDT is applied in SE can clarify its relevance and reveal opportunities for theory building.

Goal of the Practical Seminar: The thesis aims to systematically review and conceptually analyze the application of Self-Determination Theory in software engineering research. It will identify how SDT constructs are operationalized in classical SE venues such as FSE, ASE, ICSE, or IEEE-TSE. Ultimately, the goal is to develop a conceptual framework that clarifies how SDT can contribute to SE theory and practice.

Relevant Databases and Search String: IEEE Explore, ACM Library - Software Engineering Outlets: FSE, ICSE, ASE, IEEE TSE, ("self-determination theory" OR "SDT") AND ("software engineering" OR "software development")

Starting Literature: 

• Deci, Edward L.; Ryan, Richard M. (1985). Intrinsic Motivation and Self Determination in Human Behavior. New York: Plenum. doi:10.1007/978-1-4899-2271-7. ISBN 978-0-306-42022-1.
• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10664-023-10293-z, https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=8370133