In the Intertain Tech Lab a new experiment will run the coming weeks.

The project, called Active2Gether, aims to develop smart coaching strategies that integrate social networks and modern technology (e.g. smartphones) to empower young people to be physically active. This collaborative project between the EMGO+ institute and the department of computer sciences, has just started with gathering explorative qualitative data.

In order to know what specific barriers and facilitators these coaching strategies need to target, a qualitative study among students (18-25 years old) will explore the most relevant and important barriers and facilitators that this target groups faces with respect to engagement in physical activity. Furthermore, this project  aims to gain insight in the role, usability and appreciation of the different features of a physical activity Smartphone application. To reach both aims two series of focus group discussions among young adults (students between 18-15 years) will be conducted. One set of focus group discussions will explore the most relevant and important barriers and facilitators that this target groups faces with respect to engagement in physical activity. The other set of focus group discussions will be held after exposure to a Smartphone application for one month.

The Intertain Home lab will be used as host for the  focus group discussions. The Intertain Home lab offers great opportunities for recording, monitoring and creating a safe area for the focus groups discussions.  The Intertain Home Lab provides a relaxing and attractive sphere, which is very important for focus group discussions, whereby the participants have to feel comfortable.

Researchers: Danielle van der Laan, Julienka Molle, Anouk Middelweerd, Tim Velten