Exploring how Tangible Interaction and Data Representation can be used to design and develop technological solutions that will benefit STEM learning
Name: Sarah Hayes
Website: dataphysforstem.wordpress.com
Project Description:
This project is focused on exploring how two relatively new fields of research – Tangible Interaction and Data Representation - can be used to design and develop technological solutions that will benefit STEM learning. The area of Tangible Interaction is a relatively new one, and remains an unfamiliar concept to most people. The term refers to interacting with digital information using physical objects, which fosters more intuitive and effortless engagement with interfaces. Living alongside this concept is the field of Data Representation, which looks at how data can be conveyed using non-traditional modalities, e.g. sound, haptic feedback. The aim of this research is to develop solutions based on each of these concepts that can be used to represent concepts relating to STEM to further student engagement and learning. The initial focus of the project will be based around developing a series of prototype data representation platforms that will in some way support STEM learning. These platforms will be conceived and created from a Design-Based research perspective, with the end-user needs and experience being explored and facilitated throughout the design process. The developed prototypes will be deployed in different settings, both laboratory and classroom based, to evaluate their effectiveness. Qualitative research tools, including interviewing techniques, observations, workshop exercises and focus groups, will be utilized to collect data on student experience and learning. In conjunction with other CIT lecturers and postgraduate students, a prototyping lab, with specialized equipment including circuit-building and 3D-printing facilities, will be established in the institute to support these design and evaluation exercises.
Project Funding:
This research is funded by the H2020 project Umi-Sci-Ed [71083]: Exploiting Ubiquitous Computing, Mobile Technology and the Internet of Things to promote Science Education. The project is co-supervised by Dr. rer. nat. Trevor Hogan and Dr. Kieran Delaney, both of the Human-Data Interaction Group at Cork Institute of Technology, Ireland.
