Core Concepts
A novel approach to using a virtual robotic agent to support the therapy and motivation of children with ADHD through an attention training system, developed through a participatory process involving multiple stakeholders.
Abstract
This article presents a novel approach to using a virtual robotic agent, named Flobi, to support the therapy and motivation of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) through an attention training system. The development process involved a participatory approach, including perspectives from different stakeholders:
Parent Survey:
An online survey was conducted with 517 parents in Germany to understand their willingness to use software to promote their children's attention, the factors influencing their attitude, and their expectations for such software.
The results showed that about half of the parents would be willing to use the software, with concerns about the reward and motivational aspects, as well as privacy.
Clinician and Developer Collaboration:
One of the developers participated in an intensive ADHD training camp to understand the traditional behavioral training elements that could be technically implemented.
A first prototype was then presented to clinicians to gather feedback and make further adjustments.
Key elements that could be technically implemented from the traditional ADHD training included a response cost token system and verbal feedback.
Usability Testing with End-Users:
A first feasibility test was conducted with 10 children and adolescents to assess the usability of the system and gather feedback for further enhancements.
The usability of the software was rated as "good", and the children and adolescents found the system quite attractive and motivating.
The development process highlights the importance of a participatory approach, involving multiple stakeholders, to ensure the system is adapted to the needs of practitioners and end-users. The potential of the system lies in relieving parents in homeschooling situations, supporting children with initial attention problems, and prolonging therapeutic treatment effects.
Stats
"About half of the parents would be willing to use the software."
"Parents are very concerned about the reward and motivational aspect of the software, as well as privacy."
"Elements that can be technically implemented from traditional behavioral training for ADHD are mainly direct feedback via a response cost token system as well as verbal feedback."
"The usability of the software was rated as 'good', and the children and adolescents found the system quite attractive and motivating."
Quotes
"Attentional performance software offers multiple opportunities in the treatment of ADHD if the system is adapted to the needs of the practitioner and end user."
"This development process requires a lot of time and close interdisciplinary collaboration."
"The potential can be seen in relieving parents in homeschooling situations, supporting children with initial attention problems, and prolonging therapeutic treatment effects."