Participatory design and needs assessment for a pressure-sensitive pen and mobile application (SensoGrip) for children with handwriting problems

Abstract

Purpose: Problems with handwriting are a common referral to occupational therapy in children and are often associated with inadequate pen grip and tip pressure. Technologies providing immediate feedback on applied forces are currently not available. Therefore, the aim was to identify user’s perspectives on the optimal functionality of a pressure-sensitive pen with an integrated feedback system. Methods: To ensure that the product meets the requirements of the users, user needs of paediatric occupational therapists, elementary or special education teachers and children were collected in two focus groups and a children’s workshops before starting the technical development process. Focus group transcripts were analyzed and rephrased as user stories to identify user-centred requirements. In a second step, user stories were merged and ranked regarding importance and feasibility. Results: 120 user story requirements were generated from the focus groups and children’s workshops, indicating requirements regarding design and functionality for the pen and mobile application. Visual feedback, appropriate size and weight, customizability, ease of settings and usability of the pen were pivotal. Conclusions: This study comprehensively researched the requirements for a device that may facilitate children in adjusting their handwriting pressure and can guide further research and evaluation.