Physical serious gaming Considering the aesthetics of digital games for fine motor skill rehabilitation (R-2908)

Digital games are a powerful form of new media that can transform one's experiences and worldview. They are immersive, evoke a sense of wonder and invite to explore digital spaces. In real life, however, it is often harder to 'level-up' than in games - especially in situations where the improvement of one's condition is most needed. For instance, a vast number of people experience fine motor skill difficulties as a consequence of a wide range of disorders. Many of these people are unable to perform essential, daily activities and have a strong need for rehabilitation - which often proves to be frustrating, difficult and complicated. Academic interest has already been shown for the study of rehabilitation in combination with games, but only a few studies reflect on the aesthetics of game design. By taking on an artistic point of view and using a research through art and design philosophy, this research will try to bridge that gap. The role of both rehabilitation and games, and how they interconnect, will be studied. The results will show how 'level-ups' in real life can become more like the level-ups in games.

Keywords:e-learning, research-by-design

Disciplines:Biological sciences