Iterative exploration of token-based interaction for enriched audio sequencing

Abstract

Digital products are becoming increasingly ubiquitous, and consequently interaction styles such as tangible interaction are gaining popularity. However, the theories of tangible interaction seem to be not easily translated into concrete results. A research through design approach is proposed to bridge the gap between theory and design practice, and consequently to enable industrial transfer. Research through design resides in the gray area between the theoretical and the practical. To illustrate a research through design approach and to investigate the potential of tangible user interfaces for digitally enhanced toys, a pilot case study was conducted. Three design iterations have been constructed and tested to explore tangible interactions based on the use of tokens for enriched audio sequencing in a musical toy for children aged five to six. Each of the constructed iterations take prior design solutions as a starting point and create added value by building further on conclusions and design recommendations from previous iterations. The conclusions and tangible results from this study have an inspirational value and demonstrate the design insights and research possibilities of tangible interaction.