Brainwise with the Self-portrait app

Abstract

This report delves into the challenging process of translating complex tests from the Child Brain Lab into a design that is both accessible and engaging for children. The Child Brain Lab, part of the Erasmus MC Sophia Children’s Hospital, conducts research on brain development to gain a better understanding of the course of brain disorders and improve treatments for children with brain disorders. In return for children’s participation in the lab, the hospital aims to provide them with a child-friendly patient dossier: The Self-portrait. The goal of this project is:

To design a digital solution that translates the results from a selection of tests that are performed in the Child Brain Lab, into a meaningful contribution for children (developmental age 6-12 years old) with brain disorders, that will increase their participation in their care path, and positively support their developing self-image.

To design a solution that caters to the needs of the child patients, first the problem space was explored, through literature research and interviews with stakeholders. Within the age range of the target audience, children develop their language skills and transition from imaginative thinking to more logical reasoning. These cognitive abilities influence the formation of their self-image, which led to the framework for contributing to self-image: ‘Look what I did’ - ‘Look how I did it’ - ‘Look how I did it and what I learned from it.’ This framework was used to adapt the app to the needs of the target audience. In addition, the participants’ brain disorders present additional challenges, such as poor eyesight and a need for predictability.

The tests for which a translation is being made in the app are the EEG, IQ test, and walking mat. Each of these tests comes with its own set of challenges. For example, the data from the EEG test is complex and elusive for children, and the analysis is quite intricate for physicians. The results of the IQ test are highly valued.
The discovery phase revealed five trade-offs, such as the balance between providing honest information or protecting a child by sharing only positive information. The insights led to the design goal:

Create a personally rewarding visualization of the test-data of the EEG, IQ-test and walking mat for each child that visits the CBL, by highlighting their personal achievements and empowering children to become aware of and accept who they are, in a form that is integrated in the clinical workflow of the Pediatric Brain Centre, and supportive during the full care journey, so that HCPs see the Self-portrait as an enrichment to their work.

The result is an interactive prototype of The Self-portrait, inviting children to explore the world of their own brains. Each test is developed with its own character. For instance in the case of the walking mat, animals are used to give children insights into their walking patterns, envisioning enriched dialogues between children and physiotherapists, potentially leading to improvements.

Throughout the app’s development, all stakeholders have been involved multiple times, ensuring the right balance is struck in the design between presenting accurate information aligned with clinical practice while also appealing to children.

Through this endeavor, the project aims to bridge the gap between complex medical data and child-friendly interpretations, fostering a better understanding and engagement with one’s health metrics.