Peepholes as Means of Engagement in Interaction Design

Abstract

We present and discuss the concept of peepholes as a means for creating engaging interactions. By peepholes, we refer to aspects of interactive artifacts and environments that utilize the tension between what is hidden and what is revealed to foster engagement. As a foundation for discussing the qualities of peepholes, we outline a pragmatist perspective on engagement , emphasising the reciprocal relation between people, technology, and environment. We articulate peepholes as an example of a concrete means of engagement . Through a range of examples and two design cases, we explore peepholes as a means of engagement and discuss the pragmatist conception of engagement.