Date of Award

Summer 6-20-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)

Department

Department of Information Technology

Committee Chair/First Advisor

Dr. Nazmus Sakib

Second Advisor

Dr. Brian Moore

Third Advisor

Dr. Maria Valero

Abstract

Military personnel often find themselves in intense situations that require high focus. Successfully engaging in these dangerous missions means they must efficiently control cognitive load, manage overwhelming stress, and stay focused through distractions to perform at their best. Military training significantly focuses on human performance, which benefits military readiness. The 21st century has introduced unanticipated challenges to all, such as the adverse effects of excessive screen time, external distractions, and over-reliance on technology without being aware of digital discipline. Militaries are no exception. These challenges have become an emerging threat to military personnel's cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. On top of existing issues like anxiety and emotional stability, these challenges undermine their readiness and operational effectiveness and decrease their quality of life. A strategic investigation into these issues and the advancement of effective tools to address these challenges in the military context are called for to improve digital mind readiness. This research introduces DigiMindReady, a mobile health (mHealth) application system framework pioneered to counteract these effects through edge AI-driven personalized features, education, and digital discipline innovations. DigiMindReady proposes a tailored solution that operates entirely offline to ensure security, featuring a collection of functionalities to promote digital wellness, enhance learning, and maintain operational readiness without compromising security. The application's main features include personalized wellness recommendations, a digital education hub with daily educational push, screen time management, and a digital rewards system to encourage healthy digital habits. These features collectively promise to support military preparedness.

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