Employing user-centered design to develop a remote technology kit for studying young children's social communication...

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Pediatric Research

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid adoption of remote research protocols.
• Remote data collection requires reliable, secure, and user-friendly technology.
• Existing lab-based equipment is often not suitable for home-based studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a technology kit for remote data collection in homes with young children.
• To assess the feasibility and usability of this kit for longitudinal studies.
• To ensure the kit meets quality, security, and privacy standards.

Main Methods:

• User-centered design principles guided kit development.
• The kit was deployed in urban, suburban, and rural settings across four states.
• Feasibility and usability were assessed across three timepoints.

Main Results:

• The technology kit successfully captured video data in 96% of opportunities.
• 100% of captured footage was coded, with minimal technology challenges.
• Participants required less setup support over time, and staff found the kit highly usable.

Conclusions:

• This study presents a viable model for remote pediatric research using technology kits.
• The developed kit supports longitudinal data collection in community and home settings.
• The findings facilitate future advancements in remote behavioral research methodologies.