Description

This projects aims at the systematically design and use of a playful VR application for the reduction of childrens anxiety and stress related to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure. In our previous research, we presented an approach which combines patient information, play-therapeutic elements, games, and VR exposure in one VR application for desensitization and habituation to both the MRI examination procedure and the MRI scanner itself prior to the actual scan.  

The present lab courses main objective is the integration of a training component to the existing application. It should become possible for the children to experience and practice the MRI exam before the actual scan. Therefore, replayability of the existing app should be enhanced and playful coping-strategies against stress and anxiety should be integrated carefully. Further improvements concern a child-tailored interaction design, performance, and automated player behavior analysis.

Additionally, a comprehensive multi-center study has to be conducted in order to test the effectiveness of the VR intervention on children in the clinical context.

If you are interested in participating, please send an E-Mail with your full name and study program to stefan.liszio[at]uni-due.de until Monday, 10.04.2017
Participation in the kick-off meeting on Tuesday, 11.04.2017, 14:00 - 15:00 (LE 332) is mandatory.

Requirements

• Profound programming skills
• Experience with Unity and VR development
• Profound knowledge in psychology and empirical research

Target Audience

Master Komedia, Master Angewandte Informatik