Evaluation of User-Centred Design in the User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) of a Gamified Edutainment Application on Disaster Preparedness

Abstract

Indexed by MyCiteRecent years have witnessed a rise in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities, as reported by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR, 2022). Public preparedness, particularly among youth and rural populations, remains limited due to the absence of accessible and engaging educational tools. Conventional approaches often lack interactivity, reducing knowledge retention and behavioural change. To address these gaps, this study developed DisasterPrep, a user-centred mobile edutainment solution designed to enhance disaster awareness and preparedness. The research pursued three objectives: (i) to identify knowledge gaps among target users, (ii) to design a gamified mobile application tailored to their needs, and (iii) to evaluate its effectiveness in improving preparedness and resilience. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, including surveys, focus groups, and co-design workshops, followed by prototype testing with 30 participants in Malaysia. Quantitative data were collected through a structured survey measuring User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) using a 5-point Likert scale, with descriptive statistics computed for usability and engagement. Results revealed strong usability, with UI mean scores ranging from 4.04 to 4.60 and UX outcomes between 4.20 and 4.56. Tutorials, navigation flow, and progress tracking emerged as the most valued features, while simulation realism and quiz integration revealed more variable responses. Findings confirm alignment with Malaysia’s MySTIE strategic goals and contributions to SDG 3 (Good Health) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). This research demonstrates that gamified, user-centred mobile tools can significantly enhance disaster preparedness education, offering a scalable, inclusive model to strengthen community resilience. The novelty lies in integrating edutainment with structured evaluation, establishing a replicable framework for disaster education that bridges gaps in interactivity, engagement, and scalability.Indexed publicatio