Abstract:

This paper explores the development process of an educational mobile game from the customer’s initial requirements list to a functional multi-platform mobile game prototype. The game was targeted for students, lecturers and visitors and was aimed to work as a new experimental teaching method that would adapt to various locations and premises. The development process was based on User-centred Design (UCD) framework for m-learning application development. The process was utilized in order to design an application prototype that would appeal both to the customer and to the application’s target users. The customer had provided a preliminary list of application requirements in order to speed up the design and implementation phase of the mobile learning application prototype. After the initial application concept that was implemented using paper and wireframing tools, a functional multi-platform mobile application prototype was developed by utilizing the PhoneGap framework. Additionally, the game development process was used as a case study to assess the UCD framework performance in various application contexts. The design and development process resulted in a mobile educational game that fulfilled the customer’s and potential users’ essential needs. Usability evaluation results demonstrated that the users were delighted with the application’s functionality, UI and performance.

Applied Methodology and development steps:
This case study is based on the User centered Design (UCD) process specific to m-learning application development framework. The following diagram reveals the UCD framework for m-learning application development phases.

The framework emphasizes user involvement in all stages of application concept development. The framework consists of the following phases:
User Study:
This is done by applying methods such as questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. In this phase, the designer aims to learn about the users’ existing means to handle their work related tasks.

Data Analysis:
Analysis of the data gathered from the user study phase:
This analysis consists of transcript coding the user interviews, as well as the analysis and description of users’ tasks and environments. The overall requirements for the target application are identified in this phase.

Idea Creation:
By using affinity diagrams, actions and requirements created in the previous phases are categorized. Use cases and scenarios are also applied as design methods to create a description of the application concept to the target users.
Product Concept – Scenarios are shared with 3 to 5 users for their feedback. A scenario reflects the potential overall concept of the application. After validating the concept through scenarios, developers are asked to design a low-fidelity or a high-fidelity prototype based on the proposed scenarios.

Results:
The hi-fi usability assessment indicates that the users were especially satisfied with the application’s style. The application’s clear design also motivated them to continue playing the game without any frustration. The designers and developers involved in development processes have expressed their satisfaction towards the UCD framework for m-learning application development with statements such as “the steps are easy to follow”, “it is clear what to do next” and “it is a systematic approach that results in a usable m-learning application.”

Keywords:

User centered Design, educational game and mobile learning application development.