CyberBullet - Share Your Story: an interactive game for stimulating awareness on the harm and negative effects of the internet

Abstract

Increased internet connectivity across the African continent through mobile phones not only opens numerous opportunities, but also increases cybercrimes such as online child abuse and sexual exploitation. Previous national studies have shown that Namibia has experienced a surge in cybercrimes, which leaves children vulnerable to predators. While a national reporting portal has been launched, children are less likely to report incidents of cyber bullying or online abuse. This study aimed at investigating how an interactive game-based approach can be used for preventing online child abuse and the study also creates a fully functional game prototype. We wanted to gain insight into the current online experiences in Namibia. After administering an online survey and conducting focus group interviews at a local high school, we then conducted two game design workshops with stakeholders namely students, teachers, parents, and game developers. We found that most girls liked storytelling games whereas boys were more drawn to action games. This led to the development of the game called CyberBullet - Share Your Story. The study contribution is in the application of game-based approach to sensitize and prevent children from becoming victims of online abuse.