Drama prototyping for the design of urban interactive systems for children

In this paper, we present Wi-swing, a case study approach in designing a networked playground for children located in a public garden. The approach adopted in the case study is based on prototyping using the technique of scenario dramatization. The process of designing augmented interactive systems needs to be addressed to consider the physical, aesthetic and social aspects of interaction. In the case study illustrated in this paper, the design process is based on prototyping using the scenario dramatization technique. This technique allows us to explore and investigate the possible features of interactive artifacts focusing on the potential of the technology and the emergent practices. Wi-swing is the concept developed using dramatization: a tool for listening to stories in public spaces, controlled entirely by children. In the paper we show the results of the early design process and the development of the concepts by scenario dramatization. In what follows, we describe a case study in which we applied this technique for the development of an interactive urban playground through which children can be authors of the stories to which they are listening.