How gamification affordances reduce academic burnout in online learning: the mediating role of positive psychological capital

Purpose This study aims to develop a theoretical framework to explain the underlying mechanisms through which gamification affordances reduce academic burnout in online learning, with a particular focus on the mediating role of positive psychological capital (PsyCap) and the moderating role of cognitive load. As academic burnout in online learning becomes increasingly severe, understanding how gamification affordances enhance learners’ PsyCap and alleviate burnout is essential for improving both the theoretical foundation and practical applications of online education. Design/methodology/approach Grounded in gamification theory, PsyCap theory and the “Affordances–Psychological–Behavioral Outcomes” framework, this research proposes a new theoretical model that categorizes gamification affordances into objective affordances (game elements, mechanics and dynamics) and subjective affordances (psychological experiences and perceptions). A quantitative research method was used, using survey data from online learners. Structural equation modeling and SPSS were used for statistical analysis to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings The results indicate that gamification affordances directly reduce academic burnout and enhance learners’ PsyCap. Moreover, PsyCap plays a mediating role, meaning that gamification affordances mitigate academic burnout both directly and indirectly through PsyCap. In addition, cognitive load serves as a moderator, influencing the extent to which gamification affordances affect both PsyCap and academic burnout under different cognitive load conditions. Originality/value This research, from the perspective of PsyCap, introduces a new conceptual framework for gamification affordances and develops a novel model linking gamification affordances, PsyCap and academic burnout. By extending the applicability of gamification theory and refining the conceptualization of gamification affordances, this study provides theoretical insights and practical guidance for optimizing online learning experiences and reducing academic burnout.