Tangible user interfaces for children

Abstract

Tangible user interfaces, which provide interactivity using real physical objects, hold enormous promise for children. Exploring and manipulating physical objects is a key component of young children's learning. The educational power of digital technology for children has typically been limited by the fact that users explore and manipulate abstract two-dimensional screen-based representations, and not real physical objects. Embedding interactivity into physical objects, therefore, allows the "best of both worlds"- supporting traditional exploratory play with physical objects that can be extended and enhanced by the interactive power of digital technology. Participants in this SIG are invited to share ideas regarding the design and development of tangible interfaces, and to bring demos or slides/videos showing work in this area. Participants will review as many examples as time allows, and discuss the issues surrounding design and development of such interfaces. A primary goal of this SIG is to foster the development of a community of researchers and practitioners who are focused on designing and developing tangible interfaces for children.