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Project Abstract/Overview
Ani-Mate is an easy-to-use video game authoring package that will allow therapists and parents to create custom games for each user in a variety of game metaphors (collision, avoidance, tracking, etc.). Options in the games such as characters, activities, light and sound levels, and number of repetitions can be adjusted to the specific needs and interests of the child through an easy to use menu-driven interface. This design will result in games that are within the child's cognitive capacities, and avoid puzzling or startling stimuli; engage her/his sense of humor by including favorite objects and situations; and offer on-screen rewards for successful completion of the desired number of repetitions.
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Progress and Outcomes
Year 3 (2002-2003)
Delays in introduction of the National Center for Children's Rehabilitation opening at NRH have led to delays in implementation of Boing! and Ani-Mate with end users. It is anticipated that the center will begin more formal operation in Spring 2003. This will provide an opportunity for the system to be used in an actual clinical environment with input from potential users on additional modifications to the system.
In the past year meetings have been held with multiple therapists regarding their impressions of the Ani-Mate software and additional modifications that can be made to improve it. Additional input will be sought on new games that are being developed. New game development had been postponed until additional input could be gathered on improvements to the current games.
Continuity Plan
- Convening additional formal focus group of therapists to solicit additional design input
- Modifying of existing games and system based on additional therapist input
- Construction of additional games
- Integration of additional game options
- Initial clinical placement of Ani-Mate with Boing! or another interface for evaluation.
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