Sensors and Senses
Purpose:
This course is an introduction to current thoughts in interaction design on embodiment and the senses, and its implications for the development of ubiquitous computing, interactive services, wearables and augmented reality environments. The course will also include an introduction to the fundamentals of digital electronics and sensors.
Goal:
Upon completion of the course, students will be well acquainted with current thought and practice in interaction design, ranging from studies of perceptual psychology and the senses to social interaction. Through the use of the Arduino boards students will learn to apply theoretical design concepts to the prototyping of interactive devices that integrate sensors and broaden user experience beyond the keyboard, screen and mouse.
Content:
Topics within interaction design to be covered will include senses, perception and phenomenology and social interaction, interactive installations, artefacts and exhibition design. Examples of interactive installations and artefacts will be shown in lectures.
Practical learning objectives:
Students will be exposed to a range of sensors that are available to interaction designers, as well as:
- Understand what constitutes an input to an interactive system
- Understand the way in which feedback loops affect the user experience
- Understand how the human sensorium can be engaged in interaction design
- Understand the ways in which their programming skills can be extended create more compelling digital experiences
Sensor and Sensors 2005 project site
Photos by students, see link to projects. All rights reserved.