| Popis: |
This thesis contributes to a growing body of research conducted by the Interactive Systems Research Group (ISRG) at Nottingham Trent University within the fields of accessibility and accessible technologies. Core to this research is the exploration of how interactive technologies can be developed and applied as platforms for education, rehabilitation and social inclusion. To this end the group has been actively evolving the User Sensitive and Inclusive Design (USID) methodology for the design, development and evaluation of accessible software and related technologies. This thesis contributes to the further development of the USID method with a focus on its application for the design of assistive technology. Video Games are increasingly being recognised as an important resource for the development and improvement of the quality of life of those with a disability and/or impairment. Creating universally accessible games and related technologies is however no simple feat. Review of literature quickly highlights that the predominant barrier to the adoption of console gaming and also video gaming in general, by those with a disability or impairment, is that of the human-machine hardware interface. Drawing on both previous studies of the ISRG and the current innovations within the video gaming arena, this body of research aims to address four main objectives to: 1. Evaluate gaming interface controllers with regard to how well they support interaction for users with disabilities and impairments. 2. Investigate the paradigm of the Natural User Interface with regard to how well it can support the development of interaction for users with disabilities and impairments. 3. Enhance the practice of User Sensitive and Inclusive Design (USID) as conducted by the Interactive Systems Research Group for the development of accessible technology. 4. Examine the methods for involvement of users with disabilities in the design process and how this could be improved (using a product design approach). The thesis demonstrates how each of the objectives has been achieved via the development of a complimentary approach to the practice of USID, Flexible Object Orientated Design. The validity of this approach is proven via the application of three design studies, each formulated to reflect the mapping of existent abilities and skills as a platform for the definition of input modality, and thus also the emerging philosophy of the Natural User Interface. |
