Pervasive Environments and Digital Inclusion

Patrick OlivierNewcastle University

Pervasive Environments…

Future based on Mark Weiser’s vision of “the computer of the 21st century”

Significant extension on “mobile” computing

Massive networks of sensors, displays and actuators woven into the very fabric of the world around us (everything is “digital”)

Monitoring our activity and intelligently providing us with situated services to improve our lives

Real needs…

Older and disabled users have a real need for situated support: Health: e.g. remote monitoring Well-being: e.g. daily living activities Mobility: e.g. contextual information

E.g. From our actions and intentions provide situated support for meal preparation

Real challenges

Technology challenges: sensors, actuators, displays, networks security, activity recognition, context

Design challenges: no keyboards or mice transformed conception of objects new ways to engage users in design tackle “invasive” potential

Inclusion is innovation…

Not only do older and disabled users have a real need for pervasive technologies…but: supposed “barriers” keep us honest history of innovation by and for disabled users inclusion can drive the technological research agenda

Beware the technologist as “world maker”

Industry is hesitant to innovate in this space