BrainDance Game - Project Overview Document

Based on BrainDance developed by Anne Green Gilbert © 2000
Icons by Alecia Rossano © 2000

Project Vision

A therapeutic, educational rhythm-based game designed specifically for neurodivergent individuals focusing on movement, coordination, body awareness, and social skills through the principles of Anne Green Gilbert's BrainDance methodology.

Mission Statement

To create an accessible, engaging digital experience that supports neurodivergent players in developing fundamental movement patterns, body awareness, and coordination skills in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

Target Audience

• Primary: Children and young adults on the autism spectrum with varying degrees of mobility
• Secondary: Educators, therapists, and parents supporting neurodivergent individuals
• Tertiary: General users interested in movement-based games and physical development

Alignment with Frameworks

RITEC 8 Framework Integration

1. Safety and Security: Creating a safe digital environment where players can explore movement without judgment
2. Autonomy: Providing choices in how players engage with activities and movement patterns
3. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Designing for varying abilities and learning styles
4. Competence: Building confidence through achievable challenges and meaningful progression
5. Emotions: Incorporating emotional awareness into movement activities
6. Identities: Supporting self-expression through movement
7. Creativity: Encouraging personal interpretation alongside guided activities
8. Relationships: Fostering connection through shared movement experiences

UN Sustainable Development Goals

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Promoting physical activity and movement
   • Supporting mind-body connection
   • Developing self-regulation skills

2. SDG 4: Quality Education

   • Providing accessible educational content based on established developmental principles
   • Supporting diverse learning styles
   • Developing foundational skills that support academic learning

Project Scope

Vertical Slice (Current Phase)

The vertical slice will demonstrate the core functionality and experience by including:

• Complete user interface flow (opening screen, intro, hub level selector)
• One fully implemented level (Cross Lateral pattern)
• Progress tracking and point collection system
• Complete soundtrack with music player functionality
• Core motion capture and pose detection technology

Full Game (Future Phase)

• Implementation of all eight BrainDance patterns as playable levels
• Expanded progression system
• Additional customization options
• Enhanced feedback mechanisms
• Community features

Technology Overview

• Unity-based development
• Camera-based motion capture using standard webcams
• Pose detection algorithms for movement analysis
• Integration of original music by Aaron Vaders-Collins
• Laban notation visual system for movement guidance

Key Stakeholders

• Development Team: [Names and roles]
• Educational Advisors: [Names]
• Test Group Coordinators: [Names]
• Music Composer: Aaron Vaders-Collins
• UOES (previously GRID): [Contact information]

Timeline and Milestones

1. Documentation Phase (Current)

   • Project overview document
   • Game design document
   • User journey write-up
   • Storyboard creation

2. Vertical Slice Development

   • Technical foundation implementation
   • Cross Lateral pattern development
   • UI/UX implementation
   • Music integration
   • Initial testing and refinement

3. Funding and Expansion

   • Securing additional funding
   • Full game development planning

Success Criteria

• Successful implementation of motion capture technology with standard webcams
• Positive user testing feedback from target audience
• Demonstration of clear alignment with RITEC 8 principles
• Engaging and accessible Cross Lateral gameplay experience
• Completion of vertical slice within budget and timeline

Impact Goals

• Create an engaging tool that supports physical development for neurodivergent individuals
• Provide accessible movement education based on BrainDance methodology
• Demonstrate the potential of motion-based games for therapeutic applications
• Build foundation for expanded development with additional funding