“User interface (UI) design is the process of making interfaces in software or computerized devices with a focus on looks or style. Designers aim to create designs users will find easy to use and pleasurable.” (Interaction Design Foundation, n.d.)

When developing a User Interface (UI) it is important to utilize predictability, such as, a home button brings you to the home page. Creating a simple and sleek interface allows for an invisible feel for a user, every element must play a purpose. Which in turn, minimises the amount of tasks for a user to complete, which is in an important aspect of UI, creating a navigation that allows a user to get from point A to point B in as swiftly as possible. Assessment is a vital aspect of UI, offering feedback throughout to the user. Recurring design patterns throughout allow the user to become familiar with the interface, which enhances usability of the UI.

It is important to first identify the methods and rationale when developing a UI for children, as the target market for “Let’s Talk” is children aged between the ages of 8-13. Although the same outcome is expected from all UI design, it is vital to outline the key differences when approaching a UI for a certain age group, in this instance, children.

Initially I decided it was important to research creating a navigation for children. The navigation must be straightforward, it is important to develop a navigation that is coherent for children. Utilizing predictability when developing a UI for children is essential, buttons must also be large and distinct, 2cm by 2cm is the suggested dimensions. As “Children’s motor skills are still developing” (Drimteam, n.d.)  gestures that support their current knowledge of modern IT is suggested. Actions like swiping, tapping and dragging should be emphasised when developing interactions, as these movements are familiar and obvious for a younger user. Big arm and hand gestures are better developed during childhood. Tapping and swiping when interacting with the application is a strong approach when supporting a child’s motor skills. Easing interactions and minimising the navigation is another method when developing an engaging and enjoyable UI for children

Offering feedback and conducting assessments throughout the application is a vital aspect when developing an engaging UI for children. “Youngsters love being congratulated for their accomplishments, especially by characters that they can identify with. Humour them!” (Drimteam, n.d.). Utilizing praise in the application will instill both excitement and confidence in the user, which in turn will encourage the user, allowing them to ultimately grasp such a sensitive topic such as puberty. Educational applications are educating children in innovative ways, which were previously unimaginable.

It is important to consider that children have a lower attention span when creating a UI that both excites and engages them. The use of progression bars, and a fast load time when navigating through the application are beneficial. Kids are curious and will not necessarily use the app as intended, another detail which must be considered. Precautions must be in place to ensure that when a child does decide to stray away from the set navigation that the applications is still usable and any unpredictable steps taken will not take away from the set navigation and are easily corrected.

It is vital to design for a specific age range when developing a UI for children. There are vast differences in the capabilities of children which are just a few years apart. As well as their abilities, there is a sharp contrast between their interests, especially in relation to technology. Considering this, it important to design for a specific age range as it is rare that you will have the ability to design and interface that will appeal to children across all ages. When developing the UI for “Let’s Talk” it will be important to create an interface that appeals to children between the ages of 8 and 13.

In conclusion when developing a UI for children, it is important to take their physical ability, existing knowledge and motor skills, and most importantly their age into consideration. Creating a UI that exceeds a child’s knowledge and skills will discourage the user, which will result in a lack of confidence in the device and the topic.

References

The Drimteam. (n.d.). 10 Golden Rules of Interface Design for Children, viewed 22/02/2019 via
<https://www.drimlike.com/en/blog/10-golden-rules-of-interface-design-for.html>
Interaction Design Foundation. (n.d.) What is User Interface (UI) Design?, viewed 22/02/2019 via
<https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/topics/ui-design>