Tangible programming and informal science learning: making TUIs work for museums

Authors:
Michael S. Horn;Erin Treacy Solovey;Robert J. K. Jacob
Affiliations:
Tufts University, Medford, MA;Tufts University, Medford, MA;Tufts University, Medford, MA
Venue:
IDC '08 Proceedings of the 7th international conference on Interaction design and children
Year:
2008

Citing 9
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Abstract

In this paper we describe the design and initial evaluation of a tangible computer programming exhibit for children on display at the Boston Museum of Science. We also discuss five design considerations for tangible interfaces in science museums that guided our development and evaluation. In doing so, we propose the notion of passive tangible interfaces. Passive tangibles serve as a way to address practical issues involving tangible interaction in public settings and as a design strategy to promote reflective thinking. Results from our evaluation indicate that passive tangibles can preserve many of the benefits of tangible interaction for informal science learning while remaining cost-effective and reliable.