Aesthetics of Performative Interaction for Pervasive Computing Environments in Public Spaces
Aesthetics of Performative Interaction for Pervasive Computing Environments in Public Spaces – AIPPS
Principal Investigators
Prof. Dr. Sarah Diefenbach, LMU Munich
Prof. Dr. Marc Hassenzahl, Universität Siegen
A central challenge within the design of pervasive computing environments (PCEs) is how to identify general characteristics that can be transferred across devices and domains but, at the same time, acknowledge contextual demands to provide a fulfilling user experience (UX). Our research project addresses this with a focus on the emerging aesthetics of interaction, i.e., interaction that feels good because it fits the current context and relevant psychological needs. We apply this approach in the reference scenario of public smart spaces, a scenario where sensible design with regard to experiential aspects and psychological needs seem especially relevant. While users perform and experience their own interaction, they may also think about how others perceive this interaction and the impression they make on others. Social acceptability, thus, seems crucially relevant for the experience and use of public interactive systems. In a set of systematic studies, we will identify psychological needs and specific requirements for positive experiences and interactions in public contexts. Based on this, we will design, prototype, and evaluate interaction concepts in concrete application scenarios (e.g., smart restaurant, airport, citizen's registration office).
Main Research question
How do we create positive experiences in PCEs or design technology interactions for public spaces in a way that fits the context?
Sub-Research Questions
What is the role and perspective of others in public technology interactions? Are they present in UX research?
How do contextual factors like the relationship to the present others shape the user experience in public spaces?
What makes a positive technology interaction or experience for the present others?
How to design for the impact of present others on the way users interact with technology?
Do users desire expressivity or unobtrusive interaction? What about the others? What about interdependencies?
How can multiple technology interactions be reconciled with each other for an overall positive experience for everyone involved?