Abstract.
We are developing an interactive virtual underwater world with the aim to reduce stress and boredom in hospitalised children, to improve their quality of life, by employing an evidence-based design process and by using techniques from Artificial Life and Human-Computer Interaction. A 3D motion sensing camera tracks the activity of children in front of a wall projection. As they wave their hands, colorful sea creatures paddle closer to say hi and interact with the children.
4 Discussion
The mental wellbeing of young people is a central focus point in the European 2020 objectives. Moderating psychological trauma (stress) and social exclusion during this crucial phase in a child’s development promotes positive effects in the form of resilience, aptitude and interpersonal skills, with a long-lasting impact on our economy and quality of life. Attention to mental wellbeing and the application of technological solutions (ehealth) are fairly recent developments in healthcare [47]. We see an opportunity for progress through participatory research between the healthcare sector, the arts & human‐ ities and the computer science community.