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User Perspectives on Multi-touch Tabletop TherapyMichelle Annett, Fraser Anderson, and Walter BischofDepartment of Computing ScienceUniversity of Alberta, Canada

+Stroke rehabilitation

Many people suffer loss of upper motor ability following a stroke

To regain function, therapists encourage repetitive movements to increase muscle strength, coordination, and range of motion

These activities are often monotonous and discouraging, causing patients to neglect their treatment

+Technology to the rescue

In recent years, technology has been used to improve stroke rehabilitation Gamification of repetitive movements to increase

engagement Use of technology allows customization, progress

monitoring, and feedback

Previous research shows no intrinsic movement benefits to technology Power is in enjoyment, customization

+Tabletop therapy

Interactive tabletops have several benefits Direct interaction Large, 2D interaction space Ergonomics (supports body

weight, allows seated interaction)

Challenges User’s expectations

increase with commercial products

Direct interaction leaves little room for error

+Study

14 healthy subjects (7 male, 18-77 y)

Performed 4 tasks (2 tech, 2 traditional)

Completed questionnaire (Intrinsic Motivation Inventory)

Semi-structured interview

+Tasks

+Questionnaire responses Higher interest in technology

Other subjective dimensions similar

+Lessons Learned I

People enjoyed: Interactivity Animations Sounds Feeling of accomplishment, competition with themselves

+Lessons Learned II

User Expectations P13 notes “if you have an iPad you

can see that it registers every motion and gesture ... the design of [iPad] games are better”

And P12 is “just so used to playing those iPhone games”

Frustration and Responsiveness P7 was “irritated at how the

tabletop wasn’t too responsive” P8 “felt [they] could handle the

physical materials more easily than the digital ones”

+Takeaways

Provide immediate feedback on their actions

User-facing aspects cannot be ignored Patients may already be discouraged by

the nature of the activities Small frustrations can negate many

benefits of technology

User expectations will continue to increase Older users currently not familiar with

technology, but this will change, and expectations will be higher

+Thanks