Research Article
The Perspectives of Older People on Digital Gaming: Interactions with Console and Tablet-Based Games
@INPROCEEDINGS{10.1007/978-3-319-51055-2_11, author={Suriati Jali and Sylvester Arnab}, title={The Perspectives of Older People on Digital Gaming: Interactions with Console and Tablet-Based Games}, proceedings={Serious Games, Interaction and Simulation. 6th International Conference, SGAMES 2016, Porto, Portugal, June 16-17, 2016, Revised Selected Papers}, proceedings_a={SGAMES}, year={2017}, month={1}, keywords={Older people Andragogy Digital game Interaction Experience}, doi={10.1007/978-3-319-51055-2_11} }- Suriati Jali
Sylvester Arnab
Year: 2017
The Perspectives of Older People on Digital Gaming: Interactions with Console and Tablet-Based Games
SGAMES
Springer
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-51055-2_11
Abstract
The paper aims to investigate the correlation between the challenges associated with older people, their existing engagement with digital gaming, the andragogical perspectives and existing game design attributes. A pilot study was performed with 14 participants aged 55 and above. Data was collected from their interactions with and experiences of digital gaming. Questionnaires and group discussions were performed to collect feedback and perspectives on the experience. Preliminary results demonstrated that older people’s initial perspectives and perceptions towards digital gaming and gameplay were influenced by perceived or assumed difficulties, relevance and benefits. Furthermore, the participants’ perspectives and attitudes changed once they have broken the confidence barrier associated to engaging with new technologies and experienced the enjoyment from the social aspects of the engagement. They have also demonstrated renewed interest in digital games, and understanding of the potential of using digital games for achieving serious purposes, such as promoting a healthy lifestyle.