Development of Exergame-based Virtual Trainer for Physical Therapy using Kinect

Abstract

GAMES AS A PEDAGOGICAL PLATFORM was the focus oj this column in the May/fune zoo8 issue of NURSING EDUCATION PERSPECTIVES. Since that publi- cation, I became aware of two major events that served as a catalyst for continued research into gaming. Thefrst event was the Games for Health International Con- ference held in Baltimore, Maryland, May 8 to 9. The second event was the award of $2 million to 11 research teams that are investigating how videogames can moti- vate healthy behaviors. Both events highlighted the growing popularity of games as a mechanism for learning about health and engaging in activities that promote healthy behaviors, not only in academic setting but also for consumers, both young and old.