BehaviourCoach: Exploring the Use of a Web-Based Serious Game in Health Promotion

BehaviourCoach functions as a web-based serious game designed to enhance physical activity and holistic wellbeing through culturally tailored, gamified health tasks. The primary thesis posits that user experience—specifically enjoyment, social interaction, and interface usability—serves as a critical determinant for the adoption of digital health interventions. By integrating these elements, the platform aims to overcome traditional barriers to exercise and promote healthier lifestyle choices among its target demographic.

Research conducted in Mauritius with 55 participants indicates that positive perceptions of the game’s interface and social features significantly increase the intention to utilize the tool for health promotion. Data suggests that a user’s baseline health status and subjective wellbeing are predictive factors for their willingness to engage with such technology. While the platform demonstrates clear efficacy for short-term health interventions, participants expressed a lower inclination toward long-term usage, highlighting a persistent challenge in maintaining sustained engagement within digital wellness applications.

These findings establish a foundational framework for a forthcoming large-scale national study involving 1,200 participants. This future research will focus on evaluating the long-term effectiveness of the platform and identifying specific strategies to transition users from initial adoption to consistent, long-term wellness participation. Ultimately, the integration of gamification into health promotion represents a promising, albeit evolving, approach to public health, provided that developers can successfully bridge the gap between immediate user enjoyment and enduring behavioral change.