Learning Outcomes
(what) Navigate a self-directed Research through Design (RtD) project cycle to design and build intelligent, embodied interaction systems that complement standard mouse and touchscreen interfaces. (how) By combining 3D environments, spatial media, and multimodal inputs (such as voice, gestures, or biometrics) using functional programming or high-fidelity user simulations. (why) To create experiences enabled by AI moving beyond traditional screens and blending seamlessly into physical, virtual, or extended realities.
(what) Critically evaluate state-of-the-art research trends and methodologies in Embodied Interaction Design and Intelligent UIs (how) By reading, presenting, and debating recent scientific literature from top-tier venues like ACM DIS and TEI, paired with structured peer feedback. (why) To ground project decisions in established academic theory and understand how the broader research community addresses AI and Design in embodied contexts.
Content
This module explores selected and advanced topics in Embodied Interaction Design, focusing on the design and evaluation of advanced, explorative paradigms in spatial, natural, and intelligent interaction. It addresses scenarios where technological shifts, especially advancements in artificial intelligence, transform systems from passive tools into proactive agents, fundamentally reshaping human-machine relationships. Students explore these advanced interaction domains through paper analyses, presentations, and debates based on recent literature from top-tier venues like ACM DIS and TEI.
Each semester, a specific thematic focus is provided to anchor the project work. The module utilizes Research through Design (RtD) as a practical methodology, where student teams navigate a self-directed design-research cycle to build experiential, forward-looking prototypes. These interactive setups range from functional physical or virtual code-based systems to high-fidelity user simulations (such as Wizard-of-Oz environments) used to explore, map, and analyze novel interaction dynamics. This practical work directly informs the final individual oral examination. In the exam, students present a relevant research paper and use its insights to contextualize and discuss their own project outcomes.
Methods
- Faculty Coaching
- Student-Led Seminars
- Peer-to-Peer Feedback
- Project Work
- Independent Scientific Inquiry