Medizinische Fakul­tät OWL

In an interdisciplinary project between health sciences and computer science, we are developing a technology-based intervention to promote physical activity for children in a "socially disadvantaged neighbourhood" in Bielefeld". Health apps are seen as having significant potential for promoting children's health. Although apps are frequently downloaded, they are rarely used regularly. We know from current research that research prototypes often fail to make the leap into regular use. A major problem in the development of health technologies is, among other things, the lack of or late involvement of users and relevant stakeholders in the development process.

In this project, health scientists in cooperation with computer scientists are therefore developing a context-based health app for a neighbourhood in Bielefeld, in which local children are actively involved in the development process. Building on work with various practice partners, we are now cooperating with school pupils from a local secondary school. The aim of the application is to promote children's health through social interaction, getting to know resources in the neighbourhood and encouraging physical activity. The inclusion and increasingly participatory involvement of the children took place at various points in order to minimise barriers, focus on the perspective of the users and thus contribute to improving equal health opportunities.