Designing for collaboration: a study in intergenerational social game design

Abstract

This paper presents a study of a computer game designed for the elderly, allowing them to train their memory while playing the game. The game supports both a single-player and a multiplayer mode, in which the elderly can play with their friends or family using an embedded video chat application. The main question that is addressed in this paper is how the elderly gamers' experience is influenced by the possibility to communicate directly with the other players. The study presents a comparison of the game experience and appreciation of older users and their (grand)children playing the game together, with or without the video chat application. Most importantly, the study shows that the added value of video chat is not limited to social contact, but that it also provides opportunities for the younger generation to assist the elderly during the game. In conclusion, the paper points out some intergenerational game design implications, and some future research suggestions.

Situated learning through intergenerational play between older adults and undergraduates

“…Intergenerational digital gameplay creates a natural context for common goals, cooperation, and equal status that are key factors for intergenerational interaction (Chua et al, 2013). Zhang and Kaufman's (2016a) review study identified 11 digital games developed to facilitate intergenerational interaction and learning, such as Distributed Hide-and-Seek (Vetere, Nolan, & Raman, 2006), Curball (Kern, Stringer, Fitzpatrick, & Schmidt, 2006), TranseCare (Derboven, Van Gils, & De Grooff, 2011), Age Invaders (Khoo, Cheok, Nguyen, & Pan, 2008), etc. Digital games can transcend the dimensions of time, space, and close personal relationships and allow players to practice intergenerational skills in a safe environment (Ypsilanti et al, 2014).…”

Promoting Parent–Child Sexual Health Dialogue with an Intergenerational Game: Parent and Youth Perspectives

“…An intergenerational game (IGG) is a game that provides an inclusive and shared entertainment experience that is appealing across developmental ages from children to adults, representing a common ''meeting ground'' for families. [35][36][37][38] In an IGG both parents and youth can play an active role in winning the game, in contrast to parental monitoring of child-led gaming activities. Health-related IGGs, therefore, could bridge the ''communication gap'' to induce interaction between parents and their youth as a mediator to positively impact health behaviors.…”

Being (Grand) Players: Review of Digital Games and their Potential to Enhance Intergenerational Interactions

“…Digital games can also have a mutual value for both generations by encouraging communication, solidarity, and social connectedness between generations (Al Mahmud, Mubin, Shahid, & Martens, 2010;Derboven et al, 2012), tear down some stereotypes, and probably reduce the gap between generations and the disparities in authority of (grand) child-(grand) parents' relationships (Mesch, 2006).…”

“…For older adults, they can improve cognitive functioning (e.g., short-term capacity, attention, handeye coordination) (Whitlock, McLaughlin, & Allaire, 2012); overcome communication problems and social isolation; and encourage physical exercising and prevent falls (Derboven, Van Gils, & De Grooff, 2012;De Schutter & Vanden Abeele, 2008).…”