Source: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign via NFB

Research Participation Request: User Experience Research: Accessible Physical Activity Management App for Blind and Low-Vision People

The below research participant solicitation is being provided for informational purposes only. The National Federation of the Blind has no involvement in this research, but we believe that it may contribute to our research mission.

Research Title: User Experience Research: Accessible Physical Activity Management App for Blind and Low-Vision People

Being conducted by: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Purpose of the Study

The Accessible Healthcare Lab at the University of Illinois has developed an accessible physical activity management mobile app to promote physical activity among blind people. This app allows users to see physical activity data collected from an Apple Watch and iPhone in a more simplified and intuitive way compared to the existing Apple Health and Fitness apps. Users can receive voice updates on their heart rate, walking speed, and exercise duration during their workouts. Additionally, the app can send reminders through the Apple Watch to prompt users to exercise at scheduled times. Users can also engage in conversations with the app to resolve any questions about their health and physical activity data. Furthermore, the app helps users identify the recommended physical activity goals. We are looking to recruit six blind and low-vision participants who can use this beta version of the app for one week and provide detailed feedback and suggestions for improving its features.

Role of the Participants and Anticipated Length of the Study

Participants in the study will meet with the research team via Zoom a total of two times and will use the app for 7 days to achieve goals such as walking 10,000 steps per day or exercising for at least 150 minutes per week. During the first meeting, you will install the newly developed app on your iPhone and receive a tutorial on how to use it. On the seventh day, you will have a second meeting with the research team, where you will participate in a one-hour interview to discuss your progress in achieving your exercise goals and share your user experience.

Proposed Participant Compensation

Yes, $100 Amazon eGift card.

Link or Instructions for Participants to Enter the Study

Please contact UIUC’s Accessible Healthcare Lab to express your interest of ask any questions. Email: a11yhealthlab@illinois.edu

Contact the following individual with any questions

Soyoung Choi

2174024128

a11yhealthlab@illinois.edu