INplay 2010

Session: Preschool Play and Games
Stream: Research

Children's technology developer Carla Engelbrecht Fisher takes us into the minds of pre-schoolers and shows us how to incorporate developmental psychology research into the games we build. This session will provide an overview on how preschoolers develop, why research is important when designing for this age group, and will give provide examples of how to design games for this age group.

Carla Engelbrecht Fisher, Children's Technology Developer
Carla Engelbrecht Fisher is a freelance children's technology developer and consultant, game designer, researcher, and author. Carla's work focuses on technology and its relationship with human cognition and development, particularly as it applies to children and games. Through the course of her career, she has worked for Highlights for Children, PBS KIDS Interactive, Sesame Workshop, and a host of other children's media groups to produce and consult on interactive content that includes a wide variety of games. Currently, she's the lead designer for two undisclosed video games and is also a doctoral candidate in Instructional Technology and Media from the Communications, Computing, and Technology in Education program at Teachers College, Columbia University. She speaks internationally on the idea of incorporating developmental psychology and research into game design paradigms.


Session: Building Apps for Preschoolers: Case Study of Tickle Tap Apps
Stream: Content

A behind-the-scenes look at the design and development of Tickle Tap Apps - a series of iPhone apps designed for young children. Jason Krogh, director of zinc Roe design, will share his studio's experience diving into the world of iPhone development. The discussion will highlight of some of the challenges unique to working in this new and rapidly evolving space. Jason will also share some of their insights and refinements that came about through many hours of play testing with kids.

Jason Krogh, Founder & Director, zinc Roe design
Jason is the founder and director of zinc Roe design. Under Jason's direction, zinc Roe has developed a reputation as one of the top boutique web design firms in Canada with a client list that includes Teletoon, Family Channel, Canada Council for the Arts, CBC, and Bell Canada. This reputation is built on a tight integration between design and code as well as a strong focus on user-contributed content.