DERF

This is a Flash-based application that runs on a standard Internet browser. The program is targeted to elementary age children to educate them on important safety factors to consider when visiting the park and swimming in Lake Michigan. The child controls DERF’s actions by selecting from options once a scenario has been set up. Based on the choices made, the user learns what can happen in worst-case scenarios, what caused the problem and how to avoid the situation. Using DERF as a surrogate character allows for the element of safe play while still presenting important information thus enhancing user retention. After the successful conclusion of each section or task the user is awarded a badge. At the conclusion of the program a certificate can be printed with the user’s name as a record of their achievement.