The conceptual framing, design and evaluation of device ecologies for collaborative activities

A variety of computing technologies, in addition to the personal computer, are now commonly used in many settings. As networking infrastructures mature, it is increasingly feasible and affordable to consider closer integration and use of these heterogeneous devices in tandem. However, little is known about how best to design or evaluate such ‘device ecologies’; in particular, how best to combine devices to achieve a desired type of collaborative user experience. A central concern is how users switch their attention between devices, to utilize the various elements to best effect. We describe here the development of an ecology of devices for groups of students to use when engaged in collaborative inquiry-learning activities. This included a multi-touch tabletop, laptops, projections, video streams and telephone. In situ studies of students and tutors using it in three different settings showed how individuals and groups switched their foci between the multiple devices. We present our findings, using a novel method for analysing users’ transitions between foci, identifying patterns and emergent characteristics. We then discuss the importance of designing for transitions that enable groups to appropriately utilise an ecology of devices, using the concepts of seams, bridges, niches and focal character.

► The design of an architecture for collaborative inquiry-learning across multiple devices is described, including a tabletop computer, projections, laptops and video stream.
► A novel method is presented to analyse transitions and instances of device use in device ecologies.
► Patterns of behaviour in transitions between devices in the space are described from three in situ studies with different user groups and activities.
► A conceptual framework for device ecology design and evaluation through Seams, Bridges, Niche and Focal Character is developed, relating previous work to our analysis.