A Participatory Design Approach to Develop an Interactive Sound Environment Simulator.

PURPOSE

Our purpose is to provide insight into the added value of applying a participatory design approach in the design of an interactive sound environment simulator to facilitate communication and understanding between patients and audiologists in consultation situations.

METHOD

We have applied a qualitative approach, presenting results and discussion in the form of a story, following 3 consecutive steps: problem investigation, design, and evaluation.

RESULTS

We provide an overview of lessons learned, emphasizing how patients and audiologists took roles and responsibilities in the design process and the effects of this involvement.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that participatory design is a viable and practical approach to address multifaceted problems directly affecting patients and practitioners.