The objective of the tutorial is to introduce attendees to Activity Theory, a general theoretical framework for the analysis of human and communal action in the world. After an overview of the theory, focus shifts to how this framework can be utilized in practice. Some examples are shown of how this framework can provide a fresh perspective on certain extant problems in the fields of HCI and CS...

Smart local energy networks provide an opportunity for more penetration of distributed energy resources. However, these resources cause an extra dependency in both time and carrier domains that should be considered through a comprehensive model. Hence, this paper introduces a new concept for internal and external dependencies in Smart Multi-Energy Systems (SMES). Internal dependencies are cause...

This paper presents an interaction model adapted to mixed reality environments known as IRVO (Interacting with Real and Virtual Objects). IRVO aims at modeling the interaction between one or more users and the Mixed Reality system by representing explicitly the objects and tools involved and their relationship. IRVO covers the design phase of the life cycle and models the intended use of the sy...

In the HCI domain, many researches have been carried out on how to apply Persuasive Technology (PT) to stimulate a more active lifestyle. Regarding collectivist cultures, social influence has been considered as one of the most impactful factors among others in PT. Within one societal context, however, different individuals may need different motivational mechanisms based on social persuasion. I...

The general set of HCI and Educational principles are considered and a classification system constructed. A frequency analysis of principles is used to obtain the most significant set. Metrics are devised to provide objective measures of these principles and a consistent testing regime devised. These principles are used to analyse Blackboard and Moodle.

We review how to teach effectively in higher education (covering both the literature and the author’s own opinions), with particular reference to HCI and using real life-and-death examples, based on simple medical design issues. Students are motivated because even elementary HCI knowledge empowers them to make a real and significant difference in the world. “When I see how much education can be...

Our work with communities in developing countries suggests that HCI practice is a long way from maturity in these contexts. With this SIG, we are seeking to build on a CHI2007 workshop that brought together 50 people to share experience and plan a more integrated approach to the challenges of supporting international development with ICT. We would like to engage a wider cross-section of the com...

This paper describes and reflects on the development and use of ‘acted reality’ scenarios to study variability in General Practitioners’ (GPs’) record keeping practices, particularly their use of free text and coded entries. With actors playing the part of patients and in control of certain elements of the interaction, the acted reality approach creates a bridge between the controlled but often...

This paper presents a HCI inspired evaluation of simple physical interfaces used to control physical models. Specifically knobs and sliders are compared in a creative and exploratory framework, which simulates the natural environment in which an electronic musician would normally explore a new instrument. No significant difference was measured between using knobs and sliders for controlling par...