The process of developing an augmented reality (AR) tool for knowledge translation on climate change-related experiences among youth in Kenya

Abstract

This report details a qualitative methodological approach of developing an Augmented Reality (AR) tool which integrates digital storytelling for context-specific, accessible, scalable participatory research knowledge translation on climate-related sexual health experiences among youth (aged 16-25 years) in Kenya. AR, which engages audiences through virtual images overlayed on the real world in real-time, enhances learning and knowledge retention. This suggests the potential for using this increasingly accessible technology in knowledge translation, despite such use being understudied. Our AR tool meaningfully incorporates seven digital storytelling videos made by youth in Kenya through a study in 2023, to amplify youth voices while illustrating complex pathways between four climate-related factors (drought, floods, extreme heat, and excess winds) and three HIV vulnerabilities (gender-based violence, early marriage, and transactional sex). The aim of this paper is to describe the design of an AR tool for knowledge translation, youth empowerment, and health promotion, and to outline how it can be harnessed for sexual health and climate change education to inform future knowledge translation approaches with youth climate-affected issues.