The BIG lab team are delighted to confirm that we have had two full papers accepted to the Conference on Computer Supported Cooperative Work and Social Computing (CSCW 2014). CSCW is the premier venue for presenting research in the design and use of technologies that affect groups, organizations, communities, and networks.
Quick and Dirty: Streamlined 3D Scanning in Archaeology
Capturing data is a key part of archaeological practise, but the technologies used for this are complex and expensive, resulting in time-consuming processes and a separation between ongoing interpretive work and capture. Through two field studies we explored what could be gained through a closer, simpler integration of capture technologies with field work. We built a wireless Kinect and paired it with a 3D modelling algorithm to emphasise ‘quick and dirty’ capture – compromising on the resolution of traditional 3D scanners, but enabling real-time capture and review. Through further studies we saw the benefits of our approach, suggesting it could be a valuable tool for the future of archaeology.
Authors: Jarrod Knibbe, Kenton O’Hara, Angeliki Chrysanthi, Mark Marshall, Peter Bennett, Graeme Earl, Shahram Izadi, Mike Fraser
More info about wireless Kinect.
Competing or Aiming to be Average? Normification as a means of engaging digital volunteers
Engagement, motivation and active contribution by digital volunteers are key requirements for crowdsourcing and citizen science projects. Many systems use competitive elements, for example point scoring and leaderboards, to achieve these ends. However, while competition may motivate some people, it can have a neutral or demotivating effect on others. In this paper we explore theories of personal and social norms and investigate normification as an alternative approach to engagement, to be used alongside or instead of competitive strategies. We provide a systematic review of existing crowdsourcing and citizen science literature and categorise the ways that theories of norms have been incorporated to date. We then present qualitative interview data from a pro-environmental crowdsourcing study, Close the Door, which reveals normalising attitudes in certain participants. We assess how this links with competitive behaviour and participant performance. Based on our findings and analysis of norm theories, we consider the implications for designers wishing to use normification as an engagement strategy in crowdsourcing and citizen science systems.
More info about Close the Door.
