Game on! Lessons learned from joint development and production of health games

Abstract

In September 2010, Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen (the Netherlands) started a 20-week international program titled GameOn! The object of this program is for students to develop serious games, that aim to help the youth become aware of social and/or health related issues. Since the start of GameOn! students have worked on a number of different projects, all related to education through the use of interactive media. Topics were malaria, hiv/aids and personal hygiene. In all these projects, specific knowledge about the target region, domain knowledge of the subject of the game, and the target group was brought in by specialists and local representatives. The lessons drawn, in development and production, from these projects are: 1. The importance of an agile game development method that allows for regular testing, feedback moments and changes. 2. The importance of a user/player centred design and the context of playful experiences. 3. Cultural awareness in game design and development: consider and adapt to the values and beliefs of the target audience. 4. Collaboration and co-creation with local representatives in game development adds to game acceptance. 5. A very positive attitude towards the use of computers in education in the targeted areas. Addressing and incorporating these aspects into projects may contribute in more effective and adequate (social) health games or, in a broader sense, more effective interactive media applications aimed at facilitating educational learning