User interfaces for telepresentations — Input devices, interaction concepts and design issues

Abstract

Common paradigms for human–computer interaction and user interface design are often not suited to the telepresentation scenario. This is true for the used hardware, generally keyboard and mouse, as well as for software interfaces. Alternative input devices and adaptations of the respective software are necessary to gain full benefit of the augmented possibilities that computer-supported presentations can offer. In this paper we will address user interface issues for telepresentations in the context of the concept of ubiquitous computing, an alternative method of human–computer interaction which was introduced at the beginning of the ’90s at Xerox PARC. We will present different input devices and discuss their usability. Various experiments carried out in miscellaneous lectures at our university indicated numerous requirements and problems for the hardware and software. We will present our experiences, discuss occurring problems as well as possible solutions, and address current and future research areas.