Research Interests
My research interests focus on the intersection between Human-Computer Interaction and Ubiquitous Computing by exploring issues of interaction within pervasive games and other UbiComp leisure technologies. I use qualitative methods such as field studies, interview methods, ethnography and log-data analysis to study how in particular mobile games, but also other mobile devices, fit into users' real environments and affect broader social life. I apply these findings to core areas of UbiComp, such as the development of awareness applications, to develop further our knowledge of technology, design and society.
A specific recent focus of my research is the use of UbiComp in settings such as large public events (e.g. concerts), schools and outdoors (e.g. large information displays). These settings provide new opportunities for the connection of cellphones, displays and handheld computers to provide audiences with playful experiences. In particular, I am interested in how interaction in crowds changes through the introduction of interaction systems that allow audience feedback to become part of events.
My PhD dissertation focused on the notion of context-aware computing. Context-aware applications are applications that has the ability to detect and react to environment variables autonomously. Available sensor information, such as location and identity information, is used by the application to create content and interaction. I suggested that attempting to recreate a human context by way of technology is impossible and provided a framework for studying adaptive technology. I also contributed with valuable insights into users' perception of privacy in relation to context-aware applications, which are published in UbiComp and Interact (see my publications page). My thesis is available upon request.