Emotionally expressive avatars for chatting, learning and therapeutic intervention

Authors:
Marc Fabri;Salima Y. Awad Elzouki;David Moore
Affiliations:
Faculty of Information and Technology, Leeds Metropolitan University, UK;Faculty of Information and Technology, Leeds Metropolitan University, UK;Faculty of Information and Technology, Leeds Metropolitan University, UK
Venue:
HCI'07 Proceedings of the 12th international conference on Human-computer interaction: intelligent multimodal interaction environments
Year:
2007

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Abstract

We present our work on emotionally expressive avatars, animated virtual characters that can express emotions via facial expressions. Because these avatars are highly distinctive and easily recognizable, they may be used in a range of applications. In the first part of the paper we present their use in computer mediated communication where two or more people meet in virtual space, each represented by an avatar. Study results suggest that social interaction behavior from the real-world is readily transferred to the virtual world. Empathy is identified as a key component for creating a more enjoyable experience and greater harmony between users. In the second part of the paper we discuss the use of avatars as an assistive, educational and therapeutic technology for people with autism. Based on the results of a preliminary study, we provide pointers regarding how people with autism may overcome some of the limitations that characterize their condition.