Improving the 3D scale model of a Treatment Center and transforming it into a serious game to aid the WHO builders in their training

Author(s): Ham, A.P. van der (2025)

Abstract:

In collaboration with the World Health Organisation a project was conducted with the goal to improve the 3D scale model of a Treatment Center, and transform it into a serious game to aid the Treatment Center building team in their training on achieving a more effective facility layout and workflow optimization, focusing on the cases of the three infectious diseases Ebola, Cholera, and Covid-19. A Treatment Center can be described as a modular hospital, which is erected in the epidemic center of infectious diseases all over the world, with a specific focus on Africa for this project. Extensive research was conducted on Treatment Center preparation, building, and operation, the three discussed diseases, the fundamentals and application of serious gaming, and the current offering of the market in terms of similar projects, each of which were required to form an idea on how to approach the game design. The findings concerning the game design contained a few key factors. In order to be effective towards the learning goals, the game needed to contain real, practical information and knowledge, and simulate real situations as closely as possible. The principles of emotional engagement and flow impact perceived learning of serious games heavily, where the state of flow is a product from the right balance between the challenge offered by the game and the skill of the player. Lastly, in the consideration between a competitive and collaborative gameplay style, the latter was preferable in a context where encouraging teamwork and enhancing group problem-solving are the focus. As one of the main focusses for the game was for the players to understand how people and resources are moving in Treatment Centers, a versatile, acrylic game board was designed which can be drawn on with whiteboard markers. Other design choices for the physical attributes of the game, such as the 3D models, the playing cards, the manuals, and the box were based on accordance with African cultural believes, practicality and design theory based on experience and in relation to the other attributes, and the preferences of the client. The game was possible to be manufactured within budget due to the availability to execute most of it in-house at the University of Twente. After manufacturing was completed, the game was shipped to a representative of the WHO, who took it to a conference in Ghana, Africa in November 2024, where the game was first exhibited. Although the game meets all its requirements on paper, in theory is able to achieve the learning goals for its players, and left a very positive impression at the conference, its effectiveness in achieving its intended learning goals and true potential are not yet proven as the game has not yet been played by the intended target group. With great encouragement and urge, the WHO is requested to conduct testing and further research, in order to elevate the game to a higher level.

Document(s):

Ham, Twan van der_Public_Summary.pdf