Dr. Katerina Goryczka is a dedicated researcher in sustainable living and gamification. She holds a Ph.D. in Interactive Architecture and focuses on integrating technology and behavioral science to promote sustainability. Dr. Goryczka’s research explores transforming residential units into interactive joysticks, which helps quantify household behaviors and encourages eco-friendly practices through engaging gameplay. Her work includes developing systems that reward sustainable actions with digital tokens. With experience in the building industry as an architect and designer, Dr. Goryczka aims to inspire both academic and industry communities to use technology for a more sustainable future.
Co-Authors:
Henri Achten
IASTIJL
FROG 2024 – Talk
This research explores the innovative application of an interactive video game to influence and improve behavioral habits in unit residents, with a focus on promoting sustainability. The primary objective is to quantify users’ behavioral patterns and motivate the adoption of positive habits that contribute to a more sustainable living environment. In this concept, the unit itself is conceived as a joystick, where the switch on/off buttons of lights and IoT systems function as control buttons. The interactive video game integrates these real-life controls into its system, allowing the management of the household to be directly quantified and reflected in the game.
The study involves the development and deployment of a gamified system where users can interact with various scenarios that mimic real-life situations within a unit. By integrating elements of game design such as challenges, rewards, and progress tracking, the system aims to enhance user engagement and foster a deeper understanding of the impact of their actions on the environment. The game is designed to be intuitive and accessible, making it appealing to a wide demographic of users.
Data collected from user interactions within the game, including the use of household controls, are analyzed to identify common behavioral patterns and the effectiveness of different motivational strategies. This data-driven approach allows for the customization of feedback and incentives to better align with individual user preferences and habits. The study evaluates both short-term and long-term changes in behavior, providing insights into the sustainability of these changes over time.
Preliminary results indicate that the interactive video game, with the unit acting as a joystick, is an effective tool for promoting sustainable habits among unit residents. Users reported increased awareness of their environmental impact and a greater willingness to adopt sustainable practices. The gamified approach not only makes the learning process enjoyable but also encourages continuous improvement through ongoing engagement.
In conclusion, this research demonstrates the potential of interactive video games, utilizing the unit as a joystick, as a powerful means to foster sustainable behaviors. By leveraging the principles of gamification and integrating real-life household controls, the study offers a compelling method to drive positive change and contribute to environmental sustainability in residential settings. In wider future prognoses, this system could be expanded to operate with ecological bonity and incorporate a crypto karma system, rewarding users with digital tokens for sustainable behaviors, thereby creating a comprehensive eco-friendly ecosystem.
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