We started discussing different hand gestures, and one person in our group mentioned the observation of people using air-quotes while talking which was a new experience for her. Air-quotes is when the person talking raises their index finger and middle finger, sometimes bending them up and down a couple times, while lifting the hand up so the others engaged in the conversation sees this action
PROCESS
Air quotes changing the meaning of a "word"
Air quotes are often being used to emphasize a different meaning of a specific word, and sometimes emphasizing that the word is being used ironically. It’s interesting to note that it has been adapted from writing to a way of talking. There is no gestures for other signs as they are embedded into the speaking of the sentence itself, and not visible. After a couple weeks of none of us encountering this interaction we decided to change the gesture interaction to something not limited to talking.
We discussed how technology could be used to augment the senses, through this perspective we discovered how hands are also good at modifying the senses, either by blocking or limiting distraction from other sources (sound, light, smell). Some examples are holding your nose when you notice a bad smell, and focusing your hearing using the hands to limit the angle at which your ear absorbs sound. Realizing that the action of “cupping” your ear is also a signal to others that you’re having a hard time hearing something, and not only to improve the hearing.
OUTCOME
Show me that your listening closely
Expanding on this interaction, as mentioned in class, integrating this into existing products such as hearing aids or headphones could be an excellent way to improve the interaction experience. My proposal as the owner of an airpods max headset, would be to move the "transparency" button to the back of the headset, so you could signal both to the headset to turn on the transparency button, as well as indicate to a person that you are actively listening to them.
Enhancing the Senses
By exploring gestures and how they could be used to interact with technology, we uncovered some interesting concepts, that we explored through discussion, mapping, and a demonstration presented in class.
Explored together with: Tino, Yan and Guus
Imagining how the gesture of listening closely could trigger certain elements such as making a muffled sound clear, making the colors of a video more vibrant, and turning on the lights. These are all modifications that can create a more impactful feeling. Through your focus and attention, you can be a lot more present allowing you to truly appreciate your experience. This demo was created to show how the story of a snake was dull, bleak, and muffled until the audience actually starts listening to what is has to say. "Dont turn up the volume, listen more closely"
By creating an installation where the audio and visuals are distorted, we can create the transition between an annoying and delightful experience when the user cups their hand behind their ear, to “listen” more closely to the audio and visuals of the installation.
DEMO
Don't Turn Up The Volume, Listen Closely
