Constructing assemblies for purposeful interactions

This paper describes the development of a modular system of interactive tiles to support therapists’ in performing therapeutic activities together with impaired children in a swimming pool. This work is based upon a deep understanding of therapist work practice and it has been integrated with a creative approach along iterative design cycles. These activities created the foundation on which the Active Surfaces concept and prototype has been developed. Active Surfaces support mobile interactions and dynamic configuration of assemblies of tiles. Each tile represents an interactive unit, able to communicate with other tiles and to exchange data. A tile is always aware of its position in respect to the others and able to provide a meaningful feedback in the interaction with the users. This enables the Active Surfaces to engage in the therapeutic activities.