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Iterative Design and Testing for the Development of a Game-Based Chlamydia Awareness Intervention: A Pilot Study.
Rui Jiang1, James McKanna2, Samantha Calabrese3
11 School of Animation and Digital Media Arts, Communication University of China , Beijing, China .
Games for Health Journal
|August 18, 2017
Summary
This study developed a game to increase Chlamydia and sexually transmitted infection (STI) awareness in urban youth. The game significantly improved knowledge and intent for STI testing, demonstrating its effectiveness in health education.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Communication
- Game Design for Health
Background:
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including Chlamydia, pose a significant health risk to youth.
- Underserved communities often face greater barriers to STI prevention and education.
- Game-based interventions offer a novel approach to engage young people in health information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a game-based intervention aimed at increasing awareness of Chlamydia and other STIs among youth in underserved Boston communities.
- To assess the game's effectiveness in engaging the target audience, increasing knowledge, and influencing attitudes toward STI testing.
Main Methods:
- Three design-based experiments utilizing mixed methods, including playtesting and assessments.
- Iterative design process with feedback from participants across different communities.
- Comparison of game versions with and without systemic thinking elements.
Main Results:
- Participants playing the game showed a significant increase in Chlamydia knowledge compared to the control group (P=0.0002).
- A game version with systemic thinking elements significantly improved intent to get tested for STIs.
- High levels of enjoyment, mood, and participation were reported; engagement and social interaction improved significantly in later stages.
Conclusions:
- The iterative design process significantly improved the game's effectiveness in delivering health education.
- Assessment methods successfully integrated learning, health, and engagement outcomes.
- Lessons learned contribute valuable insights for developing health-focused games, particularly for improving health and learning goals.
