QUASID: Quantitative Spatial Interaction Design

QUASID poster at SIREN 2005

Samenvatting:

Although the experimental validation of spatial interaction techniques is gaining interest, many virtual reality researchers still consider it an 'art' rather than a 'science'. In the design cycle of spatial interaction techniques, which contains phases of concept formulation, implementation and evaluation, the evaluation part is most often addressed in a qualitative way, rather than being based on firm quantitative evidence. In those cases where evaluation of spatial interaction techniques is performed, the experimental set-up is usually derived from ad-hoc assumptions about the relevance of the task, the environment and other conditions that have an effect on the outcome.

This multi-disciplinary project has two main objectives. First, to develop a more quantitative approach to the design of spatial interaction techniques. Second, to apply and test this quantitative approach in the design of new spatial interaction techniques for mixed-reality desktop environments. The proposed project will therefore combine research at three complementary levels: i) at the methodological level, by developing classifications and metrics that can be used in the evaluation of spatial interaction techniques for desktop mixed-reality environments, ii) at the device level, by developing robust and effective methods for creating tangible interfaces, and by evaluating the effect of the physical shape of interaction devices on interaction efficiency and effectiveness, iii) at the system level, by studying the usability of tangible interfaces that are based on both (fully) manual and semi-automated spatial interactions.

The project is multi-disciplinary, in the sense that both a technology-oriented (computer science) and a user-oriented (human factors) perspective are represented. The project is feasible because the applicants introduce complementary perspectives and expertise in visualization, image processing and user-centered design.

(1) S. Whittaker, L. Terveen, and B.A. Nardi. Let's stop pushing the envelope and start addressing it: A reference task agenda for hci. In Human-Computer Interaction, pages 75-106, 2000.