Abstract
This study examines the relationship between HEXACO personality traits and HEXAD gamification user types in higher education. Gamification is used to enhance engagement and motivation, yet its effectiveness varies between individuals. To better understand these differences, this study adopts an exploratory approach combining personality traits and user typologies. The data were gathered from 26 university students using only validated HEXACO and HEXAD questionnaires. The Pearson correlations analysis revealed that Extraversion was positively associated with multiple HEXAD user types, including the Philanthropist, the Socialiser, the Free Spirit and the Achiever. In contrast, the Disruptor type showed negative correlations with Honesty–Humility and Emotionality dimensions. The findings provide preliminary evidence that personality traits may be associated with gamified system engagement and highlight the importance of personalized gamification design. Despite the small sample size, this study provides preliminary insights into individual differences in gamified environments and offers directions for future research.
Paper Type
Short Paper
DOI
10.62036/ISD.2026.175
HEXACO Personality Dimensions and HEXAD User Typology: A Correlational Analysis
This study examines the relationship between HEXACO personality traits and HEXAD gamification user types in higher education. Gamification is used to enhance engagement and motivation, yet its effectiveness varies between individuals. To better understand these differences, this study adopts an exploratory approach combining personality traits and user typologies. The data were gathered from 26 university students using only validated HEXACO and HEXAD questionnaires. The Pearson correlations analysis revealed that Extraversion was positively associated with multiple HEXAD user types, including the Philanthropist, the Socialiser, the Free Spirit and the Achiever. In contrast, the Disruptor type showed negative correlations with Honesty–Humility and Emotionality dimensions. The findings provide preliminary evidence that personality traits may be associated with gamified system engagement and highlight the importance of personalized gamification design. Despite the small sample size, this study provides preliminary insights into individual differences in gamified environments and offers directions for future research.
Recommended Citation
Gracel, M.(2026). HEXACO Personality Dimensions and HEXAD User Typology: A Correlational Analysis. In M. Valenta, B. Mannová, R. Pergl, A. Przybylek, M. Lang, H. Linger, C. Schneider, N. Iivari, & E. Insfran (Eds.), Making ISD Sustainable: Reloaded with AI and Automation (ISD2026 Proceedings). Prague, Czech Republic: Czech Technical University in Prague. ISBN: 978-80-01-07585-2. https://doi.org/10.62036/ISD.2026.175