Influence of social facilitation on learning development using a Wii Balanceboard™

The aim of this study is to examine if, and under which interaction circumstances, social facilitation occurs. Therefore, we used an exergame task in an experimental study design in which 70 students participated. The task to be performed involved a Nintendo Wii Balanceboard™. The participants were randomly assigned to one of two social conditions: observer or opponent. Results of the two analyses showed that there was only a significance difference in the condition between individual vs. opponent. Based on these results, we propose to create circumstances in the rehabilitation process, using exergames in such a way that patients perceive their activity as social interaction with others.