Game Application for Children Language and Social Development - Following Design Thinking Process -

Abstract

Background Children, age of 5-6, suffer deprivation of basic education due to the unprecedented COVID-19. With the rate of only-child increasing in contemporary society, the absence of connecting with peers in early childhood negatively affects the speed and depth of a child’s growth. Methods This research follows the design thinking process and uses three methods. The design team identifies the problem with the 'Emphathy map' and finds the root cause with '5 why questions,' leading to ‘How Might We’ questions to provide a solution. A game application for children language and overall social development is designed consequently. Stimulating motivation and encouragement throughout the game process, children can engage in two different game concepts which are gardening and cooking. Children can accomplish each task of growing crops and cooking cuisines through communication and interaction with team members. Result The games were tested on 14 recruited children. The test confirmed that the games would not only serve educational but give sense of achievement for the children, supporting their social development and passion for interacting. Conclusion To prevent the lag in language and social development among children, this research gamifies the learning process and encourages children to overcome current and potential circumstances blocking their enthusiasm to learn.