Human-Computer Interaction

Research

Human-Computer Interaction

Sub topics:

Augmented Reality
Quality of Experience
Robotics
Virtual Reality

Human Computer interaction seeks to understand how technology can support human activity and society. In order to do this, we study how the brain and body respond to computer technology both individually and as a society. This can work at a physical level, such as Augmented or Virtual Reality which attempt to mimic physical surroundings or objects to immerse the user in an experience. These technologies can then be used where technology interacts with people, such as learning aids, leisure experiences, but also in virtual care settings.

Quality of Experience understands how humans receive information and improves technology’s ability to mimic the best conditions for doing this. By understanding what elements contribute to a person’s satisfaction with a method of communication (video, audio, etc), Quality of Experience (Qx) can improve the quality or clarity of the most important elements of a medium, making it easier for people to communicate across technology.

HCI also studies people’s mental and emotional responses to technology. As computers become ubiquitous and services begin to be provided through or by technological means, HCI explores if and how these interactions can be designed to fill people’s emotional or cognitive needs. All areas of HCI explore the variety of experiences that people have with computers. Some of these experiences are due to age, culture, education etc, but also due to linguistic backgrounds. At the same time, researchers also examine how people with different physical, intellectual or mental disabilities can have their individual needs met by computers.