Human Computer Interaction (HCI)

Human Computer Interaction is the study of the interactions between people and computers. Several discplines are often involved in HCI projects such as pyschology, computer science, and design.

There are currently several projects underway in this area:

Interruptions in the Workplace

Collaboration is an important aspect for virtually all workplace environments. Workplaces often encourage and foster collaboration in a variety of ways yet the purpose is most always the same—to collectively focus the group’s attention on a specific problem and solve it as quickly and as efficiently as possible. While collaboration is generally viewed as a positive aspect of the workplace, the negative aspects—interruptions—cannot be ignored. Interruptions are a central research area of human-computer interaction and with the growth of pervasive or ubiquitous computing on the rise, the number of interruptions we experience on a daily basis is also growing. It is for these reasons that interruption is and will continue to be a key issue in workplaces.

Machine Learning Algorithm for Interruption Detection

Algorithmically determining when to interrupt a user as s/he is performing a computer-based task is currently an unsolved problem in the area of HCI. This project involves creating an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System as the machine learning tool in the development of an Intelligent Interruption Algorithm.

For more information on these projects please contact Ed Sykes (ed.sykes@sheridanc.on.ca) or (905) 845 9430 Ext 2490 or visit: http://www-acad.sheridanc.on.ca/~sykes/