Applied methods in Journey

In the Journey experiment we focus on the identification of inter-subjectively emerging behavioral patterns during appropriation processes in unknown environments. Human activity  in such milieus relies on the mediating effect of technology to a great extent. By evoking emotional reactions, stimulating cognitive interpretation processes, and by inviting for interaction, the installation challenges the agency of invited test persons. Strategies and forms of expression of media art and Speculative & Critical Design enable key situations to be experienced and thus negotiated. Interactive situations, narrative structures and cultural references create alienating, confrontational or ambiguous situations, whose character oscillates between familiar and uncanny.

Qualitative data collection and analysis methods (anthropocentric perspective)

  • The course was explored by single subjects: walkthroughs by several types of test groups. They differed in terms of technical affinity, age and gender. The experience was limited to 30 minutes (the choreography lead through the rooms with teasers) so that a synchronization of the data strands and the quantitative comparison of the test persons is possible.
  • After the experience, we invited the subjects for an interview (transcribed and analyzed).  The interviews capture emotional reactions, intentions and contemplation.

Quantitative methods of measurement and analysis (technical perspective)

The following situations were recorded:

  • Position tracking (UWB Indoor Positioning System) to measure position, velocity and inertial data like head movement and direction of view
  • Biofeedback sensors worn on the body (garment): GSR, acceleration
  • Interaction with sensor prepared gadgets (video, contact, motion, capacitive sensors, etc.)
  • The data was processed by rule-based algorithms
  • The test persons were asked to fill out questionnaires (semantic differential)

 

The recorded values and analysis of spatiotemporal, physical and somatic interactions get analyzed according to the following particular interests:

  • Physical behavior patterns
  • Somatic behavior patterns
  • Exploration and navigation: appropriation processes
  • Associations and metaphors of the human-machine relationship
  • Analytical data representation for analysis
  • Critical interaction situations: loss of agency, paternalism through technology, experimental setup as intention of research