The importance of multimodal play and storytelling in medtech for children: A Case Study of Co-designing a Mixed Realities Play Kit to Prepare 4 to 10-year-Olds for an MRI Scan

This article examines the research and development of a mixed realities play-kit to prepare children for an MRI scan be undertaken without need General Anaesthetic. The kit uses three different types play; augmented, virtual reality physical help become familiar with look scanner, noises it makes, role radiographer, what expect when they go hospital practise staying still. We reflect on initial multimodal methods that were used bring into first stages design process. These included, model making, drawing, play informal conversations. From which, data analysed visual thematic means make original contribution field medtech children, in we found young (aged six under) prefer receive medical information through opportunities storytelling. As direct result this finding, matched various areas preparation outlined above. In doing so, paying attention specific affordances ways which modes are combined depending if physical, augmented or used. Such findings likely useful other researchers developers creating products children. For those interested multimodality specifically, also provides insight connection between information, communication application these design.