Research in serious games for people with intellectual disability : a meta-analysis study

Abstract

Currently, the potential of games as an intervention tool in a broad range of areas has been increasingly explored by researchers. Notwithstanding, and when considering individuals with Intellectual Disability (ID), the need for more data emerges, as well as the need to systematize and summarize such data, allowing evidence-based decisions to all the stakeholders in this field. The present study aimed to systematize the existing evidence regarding the effectiveness of serious games in the promotion of life skills in people with ID. Several scientific databases were consulted, as well as researchers' social networks to obtain a sample as wide as possible. Through a process composed of different phases, several inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to the initial search results. The obtained sample of studies (N = 8) was then systematically analyzed, including a meta-analysis procedure, to summarize the quantitative data on the effectiveness of serious game based interventions for people with ID. Results from the meta-analysis study emphasize larger effect-sizes than conventional methods (non game-based) interventions with people with ID (fixed-effects, g = 0.417; 95% CI [0.169, 0.666]; Z = 3.293, SE = 0.127, p = .001) , in the promotion of a broad range of variables associated with well-being, from cognitive abilities to psychotherapy related skills. Such results can frame the discussion regarding serious games as a relevant and feasible strategy to promote skills in people with ID, allowing evidence-based decisions in this field, aimed at supporting an increasing and enhanced inclusion of games in their daily lives.