Brain Dance Game

Quick Navigation

• Project Overview
• Brain Dance Methodology
• Game Design & Structure
• User Personas & Journey Maps
• Technical Implementation
• Musical Composition Structure
• Accessibility & Inclusivity
• RITEC-8 Framework Integration
• RITEC-8 and Accessibility Implementation Matrix
• Development Roadmap
• Research Components
• Team & Collaborators
• Resources & References

Project at a Glance

What is the Brain Dance Game?

The Brain Dance Game is an educational and therapeutic rhythm-based digital experience designed for neurodivergent individuals. Using a standard laptop webcam, the game guides users through Anne Green Gilbert's Brain Dance methodology—a structured approach to movement that supports neurological development, improves coordination, and enhances emotional regulation.

Key Features

• Accessible Design: Works on standard laptops with webcam—no special equipment needed
• Therapeutic Foundation: Based on proven Brain Dance methodology with eight developmental movement patterns
• Customizable Experience: Adaptable settings for various sensory preferences and ability levels
• Positive Reinforcement: Non-competitive scoring system that celebrates progress
• Original Music: Dynamic soundtrack featuring calming and energetic compositions
• Research Integration: Built-in framework for measuring outcomes and effectiveness

Who Is It For?

The game has been designed with four primary user personas in mind:

• Alex (16): Teen with autism seeking accessible physical activity
• Maya (21): College student with ADHD managing anxiety
• Jamie (10): Child with autism who learns visually
• Dr. Taylor: Occupational therapist seeking evidence-based tools

Current Status

The project is currently in Phase 2 (Vertical Slice Development), focusing on the Cross-Lateral component of the Brain Dance. This component was chosen for its effectiveness in integrating brain hemispheres and addressing coordination challenges. The team is implementing the motion detection system, user interface, and basic audio framework.

Project Vision

The Brain Dance Game serves as a digital extension of successful in-person community dance classes, providing access to movement therapy for individuals who may be unable or unwilling to participate in face-to-face sessions. By combining motion-tracking technology with engaging gameplay, the project aims to:

1. Improve physical health outcomes for neurodivergent populations
2. Enhance neurological integration through structured movement patterns
3. Build confidence and body awareness in a low-pressure environment
4. Provide emotional regulation tools through embodied movement
5. Create potential stepping stones toward increased social engagement

Unique Approach

What sets the Brain Dance Game apart:

User-Centered Design

Every feature has been developed based on extensive persona research and journey mapping, ensuring the game meets real needs at each stage of the user experience.

Accessibility First

Rather than treating accessibility as an add-on, the project incorporates universal design principles from inception, with customizable sensory settings, multiple instruction modes, and flexible difficulty levels.

Research Integration

The project includes a robust research framework to measure effectiveness, with IRB-approved protocols for gathering user feedback and documenting outcomes.

RITEC-8 Framework

The game design aligns with the UNICEF framework for children's digital wellbeing, focusing on competence, emotions, creativity, autonomy, identities, relationships, diversity & inclusion, and safety & security.

How to Use This Wiki

This wiki serves as the central knowledge repository for the Brain Dance Game project. Each section provides detailed information on a specific aspect of the project:

• Start with the Project Overview for a comprehensive introduction
• Explore Brain Dance Methodology to understand the movement foundation
• Review User Personas & Journey Maps to see how design decisions address user needs
• Check the Development Roadmap for current status and future plans
• Visit Team & Collaborators to learn about the people behind the project

Use the navigation links at the top to move between sections. Each wiki page has been designed as a standalone document that can be easily updated as the project evolves.

Getting Involved

To contribute to the Brain Dance Game project:

• Contact the project coordinator at [[email protected]]
• Participate in upcoming user testing sessions
• Share feedback on prototype elements
• Join our research initiatives as a participant or consultant

---

Last updated: April 2025