Project Description:We are living in a golden age of information where computing and sensing technology collect and generate tremendous amounts of data and the Internet facilities data storage and manipulation by the masses. A growing area of interest is how to provide this data back to the consumer to improve awareness of some aspect of his/her life. This project investigates the use of always-on interactive displays (much like a wall clock) to support awareness with a particular focus on awareness of energy consumption in the home. The goal is to identify how such displays can be designed and effectively integrated into the fabric of home life to support awareness of energy consumption habits. Researchers will investigate several important aspects of integrating feedback devices into the home, including:
- The tradeoffs between aesthetics and utility
- Data privacy considerations
- The effect of such devices on home routines and vice versa
- Supporting motivation and system adoption in a multi-inhabitant home
- Supporting goal-setting and monitoring
These issues are most effectively addressed by studying real people in real households. Thus, researchers will employ user-centered methods to inspire, inform, and evaluate designs through fieldwork and long-term deployments of designs in real homes.
The results of this project will apply to not only energy consumption awareness, but more broadly to other areas where data feedback and reflection may promote personal awareness. Examples include supporting awareness of fitness and nutrition habits or feedback of activities of everyday life (medicating, sleeping, eating, etc.) for the elderly aging in place at home.
Key areas of responsibility: study implementation, data analysis, results publication
We seek to fill a Research Scientist position where the candidate will be responsible for co-organizing and executing the research project described above. In particular, the candidate will be responsible for:
- Executing multiple studies including an in-home field study and an in-home participatory design study
- Development and execution of a survey on visualization designs
- Leading the design and implementation of prototype awareness systems
- Leading the deployment of designs for longitudinal study
- Data analysis after each study and/or deployment
- Scientific publication of results in international venues including CHI, InfoVis, CSCW, etc.
- Co-Development of curricular materials
Necessary Skills:
Human-computer interaction background
User-Centered Design
Contextual Design
Survey design
Statistical analysis
Grounded Theory
Visual/Interaction Design
Desired Skills:
Familiarity with sustainable energy research
Familiarity with information visualization/awareness/ambient technologies
Consults/Works With: The candidate will work closely with the PI, project GRA, and additional research team members to complete each phase of the research project.
Terms: The project will run for 2-years.
Compensation: Salary is competitive with a typical Postdoctoral Researcher/Research Scientist Position
Contact Info:
Ronald A. Metoyer, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Oregon State University
541 737 5553
metoyer@eecs.oregonstate.edu
