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 * Bodystorming**

Bodystorming experiences are methods used to imagine what a not-existing product would be like if it did exist, and how it would work. It is often seen in interactive environments. The point is to actually make something physical out of the idea and not just 'brain'storm the artifact. This allows developers and resarchers of the artifact to actually physically try out the object, and see its qualities/constraints. They get to demonstrate and act out the person that would most likely be using it, and see if the object is appropriate, from their perspectives.

Disability #1: Blindness The researchers simulated blindness by blindfolding a participant and giving her a cane. To cope with being visually impaired, the participant counted steps to form mental maps of stair locations. The skill was used multiple times to aid in movement. The participant reported heightened levels of other senses when being blind, and researchers were able to identify approaches in using multisensory methods of transmitting information.

Disability #2: ADHD The participant had to solve math problems and recite a phone number simultaneously, to see what having ADHD is like. He reported low self-esteem, and could not recite the correct phone number after all. By experiencing having ADHD, he (or any participant) realized that having the disorder is very frustrating, which again, impacts is self-esteem. Assisting people with ADHD with clear narration is very crucial, and by providing them with fun yet challenging tasks, they can improve their attention.

Disability #3: Motor-chronic arthritis The participant had pens and pencils attached to his hand, with a glove on top, to experience motor-chronic arthritis. He reported constant fear of injury, which made him extremely apprehensive. Also, from using more energy, his body temperature rose, which added to his anxiety. From his experience, it is clear that people must give people with motor-chronic arthritis their own space and have safe objects around them to decrease their fear. Also, speech recognition systems should be further researched for their benefits.

References: [|http://www.spaceandculture.org/2004/11/16/play-and-bodystorming/] __Back to Reina's page __