Ori-Gam i – An App fostering spatial competency development and spatial learning of children

Fostering spatial competencies of children has been positively discussed across disciplines and institutes. As most exiting tools for spatial learning are based on existing software such as geographic information systems, these tools may not be suitable for children at the age of 8 to 12. With this goal in mind, we designed the Orientation Gaming App (Ori-Gami) fostering the development of spatial competencies and spatial learning of children in a gaming scenario. Children only need to follow intuitive instructions combined with visual and auditive hints given by the app to complete the game in an outdoor environment. Throughout the process, children engage in activities involving essential spatial competencies such as map learning, orientation, and wayfinding. This paper presents the concept, design and usability tests of Ori-Gami used by both children and adult students. Results confirm our principles of designing a tool specifically for children to foster their development of essential spatial competencies such as orientation, wayfinding and map understanding.