Evaluation of the gamified application KIJANI to promote physical activity in children and adolescents: A multimethod study

Objective: Digital approaches have the potential to make activity promotion attractive and age-appropriate for children and adolescents. KIJANI is a mobile application aiming to increase physical activity (PA) in youth via gamification and augmented reality. This study investigates the user experience with KIJANI through a multimethod approach. Approaches: KIJANI is based on the concept that virtual coins can be earned through PA, for example, in the form of collected step counts. With these coins, blocks can be bought, which can be used to create virtual buildings and landscapes and integrate these into the player's real-world environment via augmented reality. To evaluate the user experience, participants played KIJANI in groups of three for 25 min. Afterwards KIJANI was evaluated qualitatively with one-on-one semi-structured interviews as well as quantitatively with standardized questionnaires. Results: Overall, 22 participants (12.6 ± 1.7 years, 6 girls) were included in the study. The overall game concept and realization were well received by the target group. Study participants did have various and creative ideas for the further development of KIJANI. The majority (n = 16) thought that using KIJANI would increase their PA level. User experience based on the UEQ scale was (mean ± SD): attractiveness (1.78 ± 1.82), perspicuity (2.15 ± 0.680), efficiency (0.67 ± 1.25), dependability, (1.21 ± 0.93), stimulation (1.24 ± 1.78), and novelty (1.27 ± 1.34). Conclusion: With these insights, a further step has been taken in the participatory development of KIJANI. Apps like KIJANI appear to be suitable for PA promotion in children and adolescents.