Using gamification to motivate children to complete empirical studies in lab environments

Authors:
Robin Brewer;Lisa Anthony;Quincy Brown;Germaine Irwin;Jaye Nias;Berthel Tate
Affiliations:
UMBC, Information Systems, Baltimore MD;UMBC, Information Systems, Baltimore MD;Bowie State University, Bowie MD;UMBC, Information Systems, Baltimore MD;Bowie State University, Bowie MD;Bowie State University, Bowie MD
Venue:
Proceedings of the 12th International Conference on Interaction Design and Children
Year:
2013

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Abstract

In this paper, we describe the challenges we encountered and solutions we developed while collecting mobile touch and gesture interaction data in laboratory conditions from children ages 5 to 7 years old. We identify several challenges of conducting empirical studies with young children, including study length, motivation, and environment. We then propose and validate techniques for designing study protocols for this age group, focusing on the use of gamification components to better engage children in laboratory studies. The use of gamification increased our study task completion rates from 73% to 97%. This research contributes a better understanding of how to design study protocols for young children when lab studies are needed or preferred. Research with younger age groups alongside older children, adults, and special populations can lead to more sound guidelines for universal usability of mobile applications.