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The process of involving children with autism in the design of a museum-based application

Magkafa, Dimitra; Newbutt, Nigel

Authors

Dimitra Magkafa

Nigel Newbutt Nigel.Newbutt@uwe.ac.uk
Senior Lecturer in Digital Education



Abstract

Museums are considered active institutions that facilitate the possibility of self- directed learning and exploration. Decades have passed since the implementation of Disability Act (1995) and we have seen the incorporation of inclusive practices in museums for a diverse range of people including people with autism. In support of this endeavour, this paper seeks to present a process of designing a museum-based application tailored to autistic children’s needs. By adopting a Participatory Design approach, the paper attempts to capture the preferences of a case study group in co-designing an app for a Bristol-based museum. Initial findings emphasise the significance of adopting a participatory methodology in enabling users to provide feedback whilst collaboration among stakeholders. These were found to be key factors in the development of the platform. This paper will also consider the challenges that emerged from the participant’s involvement and how these influenced the design process.

Citation

Magkafa, D., & Newbutt, N. (2018, April). The process of involving children with autism in the design of a museum-based application. Paper presented at 22nd Annual Museums and the Web conference, Canada

Presentation Conference Type Conference Paper (unpublished)
Conference Name 22nd Annual Museums and the Web conference
Conference Location Canada
Start Date Apr 18, 2018
End Date Apr 21, 2018
Acceptance Date Jan 5, 2018
Deposit Date Mar 5, 2018
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Keywords autism, museums, design process, participatory design
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/872413
Publisher URL https://mw18.mwconf.org/
Related Public URLs https://mw18.mwconf.org/
Additional Information Title of Conference or Conference Proceedings : MW18: Museums and the Web 2018