While living in Bradford, another university student decided to interview me for a research project about how students with physical disabilities play Nintendo Wii games. Several studies have shown that playing these kind of games have helped people feeling much better…!

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How have you decided to come in Bradford?

My name is Daniella Jade Lowe. I study a BA History and Politics. I moved to Bradford to complete my studies.

What are your interests and hobbies?

Journalism and Politics are my passion. Writing, Blogging and advocating are my hobbies.

2) How do you describe your disability?

Neurological and Developmental.

How does your disability affect your life?

I use a wheelchair for mobility.

What exercises/activities do you do with practitioners or physiotherapists?

None.

3) Have you ever played video games?

Yes.

What game platforms you enjoyed most and what kind of games have you played?

Nintendo Wii Fit and Sports.

How much time did you usually spend playing video games?

One hour.

Have you ever played computer games with friends or family?

Yes.

4) Tell us a little bit about your first experience with Wii games. (Try to remember, if you have played alone, what sort of Wii games were or if it was your choice to play those games).

My first experience of playing Wii games was in Bermuda at home with family. I played tennis.

How do you feel about playing on the Wii now?

I’m out of practice.

5) What do you think of the Horse Shoes and Lawn Darts games?

Both are similar.

What was the main difference between them?

Horse shoes is played with four horseshoes and two stakes in the ground, 40 feet apart. Players take turns tossing horseshoes at the opposite stake, trying to get a ringer (a horseshoe that encircles the stake) or land close to it. A ringer is worth three points, and the closest horseshoe is worth one point. The game is usually played to 15, 21, 30, 40, or 50 points, depending on the rules.

Lawn darts is played with four large darts and two targets, usually plastic rings or circles. Players throw the darts underhand at the target on the ground, trying to land inside or close to it. A dart inside the target is worth three points, and a dart closer than any of the opponent’s darts is worth one point. The game is usually played to 21 points.

How difficult were they?

Both were difficult because it required a sufficient level of hand-eye coordination. I also needed good aim.

Why have you decided to play these two games instead of tennis, croquet and basketball?

The project manager decided this for me.

6) While you were playing, how did you feel about your performance?

I am proud of myself.

What positive or negative emotions did you feel?

The score didn’t match the level of energy I exerted.

7) There is a significant improvement in your final gaming scores playing Horse Shoes. How has this outcome affected your psychology? (i.e. pride, confidence, self-esteem, satisfaction, enthusiasm).

My level of concentration increased.

8) While you were playing, did you notice any physical changes (rise in heartbeat for example)?

There was definitely a rise in heartbeat and arm muscle strength.

Do you think the games made you feel more competitive?

Yes.

9) Did you notice any difference on your body after the completion of the gaming sessions either on your physical or psychological condition? (i.e. stronger arm, better arm-hand movements, loneliness, lack of concentration, tiresome).

Stronger arms and tiredness.

10) Do you think these two games offered you a motivation to play games generally in your daily life?

No.

Did you find them too interesting or boring to you and what reasons made you feel like that?

Both games were boring because I threw darts and horse shoes in the same direction.

11) How do you rate your physical activity before and after the gaming sessions? (i.e. active-inactive, endurance, stable, without any difference).

Inactive.

12) What are you enjoying most in Bradford Campus?

Cycling4All

Do you think you have the same opportunities in the University’s activities and societies with the other students in the Campus?
Yes.

13) What do you think the value of playing Wii games is?

I think that the value of playing Wii games is high because it was expensive to purchase and requires batteries, remote controls and lots of concentration and practice.

Do you think playing Wii games would be a potential stimulus for all disabled students, making life in the University more enjoyable and entertainment in accordance with your personal experience?

Yes.