Collaborative Map Exploration Using Multitouch Surfaces

Abstract

The Collaborative Map Explorer defines a new learning artifact that allows students to explore different layers of information related to a geographical location on a map using distributed user interfaces in the same space at the same time. Students are able to manipulate geographical information using viewports that can be moved over a map that is projected on a shared surface (i.e. multitouch surface). Each viewport exposes different layers of information for a particular region on the map. These information layers are selected by the student using a mobile device. Consequently, the use of a distributed user interface provides students with the ability to address local and shared information at the same time in the same space in a Computer Supported Collaborative Learning Environment. The article also includes a preliminary usability evaluation of this interaction technique that exposes the potential of this solution.