Dwelling Amongst a Ludic Internet of Things: an Autobiographical Design Inquiry

Abstract

As homes increasingly grow into ubiquitous computing environments, re-imagining the interplay of computing and everyday domestic life is pertinent to interaction designers. Building on the traditions of critical and speculative design within human-computer interaction, this thesis is an autobiographical design research inquiry of how Internet of Things (IoT) systems can be designed to support ludic communication between family members at home. By building two bespoke IoT systems and living with them over a six-month period, this research provides alternative visions, beyond efficiency and productivity, of how we might weave computing more deeply into the fabric of the home while supporting the life-giving values of rest, reflection, and familial connection.