In our previous update, we presented our demo prototype of a motion-based exercise game to children ages 5 to 10 for feedback during three focus group sessions. The prototype presented was used as a design probe to help children understand our game concept, thus inspiring them to generate design ideas ranging from what they like and dislike in the current prototype to what features can be improved upon or added to the game. This method of design follows from research by Allison Druin [1], where she discussed the benefits of involving children in the design when developing technologies for children. Currently, we are using affinity diagramming to walk the data collected in our focus groups to understand how to improve our prototype to better motivate children in our target age group to maintain a more active lifestyle while having fun with the game.

I started on this project this semester, and am enjoying every bit of it because it embodies my research interests in whole-body interaction and movement based games. Furthermore, I can apply concepts I learned in my User Experience and Design course, Human Computer Interaction course, and Game Development course which makes the project experience more fulfilling. I am looking forward to improving the prototype and creating a game that children can enjoy.

[1]. Druin, Allison. “The role of children in the design of new technology.” Behaviour and information technology 21.1 (2002): 1-25.