A User-Centred Design Framework for Agile Development of Educational Gamified Applications

Agile methodologies, while fostering flexibility and rapid iteration, often present challenges in prioritizing user needs within the dynamic development process. This paper proposes a novel framework that seamlessly integrates User-Centred Design (UCD) principles with the Scrum framework for the development of engaging and effective educational gamified applications. The proposed framework leverages a comprehensive set of UCD techniques, including user interviews, focus groups, persona development, empathy mapping, journey mapping, usability testing, and heuristic evaluation. To validate the framework, a case study was conducted involving the development of a gamified application aimed at enhancing reading comprehension skills among university students. Qualitative data, gathered through interviews with the development team, revealed positive perceptions of the framework in facilitating user-centric decision-making throughout the development cycle. Quantitative data, collected using a Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)-based questionnaire, further supported the framework’s effectiveness in ensuring user satisfaction and acceptance of the final product. The findings demonstrate that this integrated approach effectively addresses the challenges of balancing user needs with agile development constraints, ultimately leading to the creation of more user-centered, effective, and engaging educational gamified applications.