Identifying Design Heuristics for Inclusive Exergames Using Participatory Design With Disabled Players
Keywords:
inclusive exergames, participatory design, accessibility, disability, game heuristics, cultural relevance, IndonesiaAbstract
This study aimed to identify design heuristics for inclusive exergames through participatory design with disabled players in Indonesia. A qualitative research design was adopted, employing semi-structured interviews with 16 participants with diverse disabilities, including mobility, visual, and cognitive impairments. Participants were recruited from disability communities and rehabilitation centers in Indonesia. Interviews explored experiences with exergames, perceived barriers, and recommendations for more inclusive design. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically using NVivo 14 software. Coding was conducted in iterative cycles, including open, axial, and selective coding, with intercoder agreement procedures and member checking to enhance trustworthiness. Three main themes emerged: (1) Accessibility in Gameplay, emphasizing customizable controls, multimodal feedback, simplified interfaces, calibration features, and device compatibility; (2) Engagement and Motivation, highlighting balanced challenge, social connectedness, personalization, reward systems, fun, and cultural relevance; and (3) Inclusive Co-Design Insights, underlining the importance of early player involvement, respectful communication, collaboration with experts, iterative feedback mechanisms, and empowerment of players. These findings demonstrate that inclusive exergame design must go beyond technical accessibility to encompass motivational, cultural, and participatory dimensions. The results also highlight the socio-economic constraints of players in Indonesia, where device compatibility and cost considerations strongly influence accessibility. The study provides empirically grounded heuristics for inclusive exergame design that integrate accessibility, engagement, and participatory co-design. By centering the lived experiences of disabled players, it contributes practical guidelines for developers and researchers while emphasizing the importance of cultural context and empowerment in design processes. These insights have implications for advancing both academic discourse and industry practice in inclusive game development.
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