A CAD-Based game for inclusive design

The paper presents methods and results of a co-design process aimed at structuring a game intended to train undergraduate students on inclusive design. The process is accomplished in the framework of the wider project PudCad, Practicing Universal Design Principles in Design Education through a CAD-Based Game, supported by the UE program Erasmus+ involving HEIs and Research Centres. It’s aim is to create a gaming platform based on CAD software supporting interior architecture and design students to conceive accessible environments regardless of age, physical ability and/or user social condition. Essential for the implementation of EU social integration and non-discrimination goals, Universal Design is often marginal in students’ training. PudCad intends to fill this gap by developing a digital video game (a game for change), enriched with story and CAD features. Through playful dynamics, future designers will be able to assimilate inclusion principles and create concepts based on human diversity. The project develops itself through 4 students workshops and three international conferences on Universal Design, Ergonomics, Game and Education. In this paper we focus on the process and results of the third workshop. Building empathy and awareness for the Universal Design principles was decided to be the main drive of the game. Besides research and analysis on literature and use cases, tools like game engines, platforms and technologies (i.e. virtual reality and augmented reality) were checked out and tested. Before starting the production stage, the idea of having analog prototypes came up to support robust design decisions. To develop game concepts and produce paper prototypes, we execute a game jam workshop with the participation of interior architecture and design students as well as game design students leading the teams. The workshops is thus a breaking point to take solid decisions about the game design and production