Eye training games for children with low vision: A design-based research study

Abstract

This study investigated the design processes for developing eye training materials for children with low vision (CLV) using computer game applications based on eye movement tracking to enhance their vision skills. The primary aim was to create interactive eye training materials tailored to improve CLV’s vision abilities. Employing a design-based research methodology, the study followed four distinct phases: analysis, development, evaluation and testing, and documentation and reflection. Initially, a game-based eye training program was developed. This program was then tested with CLV to gather relevant data for refining the design of eye-gaze games. Data were meticulously collected from a diverse group of stakeholders, including parents, special education teachers, ophthalmologists, and expert faculty members, using various methods such as interviews, focus group meetings, usability testing, and direct observations. The results provided critical insights into the design processes required to create a practical and usable game-based eye training program for CLV. These findings highlighted that children with low vision could benefit significantly from eye-tracking technology, using it to enhance their scanning, focusing, and tracking skills. Overall, the study suggests that eye-tracking technology offers a promising tool for developing vision-improving interventions for children with low vision, thus contributing valuable knowledge to the field of vision rehabilitation.

Keywords

• eye training games
• vision rehabilitation
• low vision
• eye-tracking technology
• design-based research