ConnectWell @ Work Lab
The Science of Teleworker Well-Being & Productivity
Applying Psychological Science to Problems in Organizations
The ConnectWell @ Work Laboratory conducts field research to better understand worker motivation, stress, and well-being issues among teleworkers and other workers who use electronic work (e-work) communications as part of their jobs.
Connecting well at work means using technology in a way that promotes sustainable work engagement. How can organizations promote effective work connections for productivity and let workers "unplug" to maintain well-being? This lab conducts research on evidence-based solutions for tackling problems with “always on” workplace practices that increase worker stress and burnout given the 24/7 nature of e-work communications. Alternatively, “optimally on” workplace practices allow employees to maximize both their effectiveness at work and well-being. Typical lab topics include examining issues surrounding work engagement, work inclusion, work recovery, and work-life balance among teleworkers. This lab also explores effective organizational, leadership, and workgroup practices for creating positive telework experiences.
You may request free access to lab research publications on ResearchGate for more information.
Work Engagement
What motivates teleworkers to engage fully with their work tasks? How can we increase meaningful and productive experiences of e-work communications?
Work Inclusion
What facilitates rewarding relationships at work and feelings of inclusion? How can we reduce feelings of isolation and negative e-work communications?
Work Recovery
What helps teleworkers disconnect so that they can experience sufficient work recovery? How can we improve telework recovery experiences for less stress and better well-being?
Work-Life Balance
What improves work-life balance experiences among teleworkers? How can we provide flexible work options to help teleworkers effectively manage work and personal/family goals?
Making a Difference in Organizational Practices
The ConnectWell @ Work Laboratory provides consultation and speaking services to organizations interested in learning more about teleworker motivation and well-being.
Dr. Lacie Barber is a highly-published, international expert on worker stress and well-being issues. Her research has been funded by the Society for Human Resources (SHRM) Foundation and the National Institute of Occupational Health & Safety (NIOSH). She has research methodology expertise in survey development and administration, as well as organizational assessment and consulting. Organizational partners on research activities can also receive pro bono or reduced fees for consultation services and assessments.
Joining the Lab as a Prospective Research Assistant
The ConnectWell @ Work Laboratory is currently training only graduate students admitted to the M.S. Applied Psychology Program as research assistants. Students interested in either the Industrial-Organizational Psychology or Quantitative Methods specializations are welcome to apply to the lab.
Graduate students applying for Fall 2024 admissions to the M.S. Applied Psychology Program will be considered for lab membership. The application deadline is Dec 15 to be considered for Fall entry the following year. Please contact the Psychology Department graduate admissions coordinator for more information. Undergraduate positions are currently not available.