Abstract

We will be discussing: Blackwell, A.F., Rode, J.A. and Toye, E.F. (accepted). How do we program the home? Gender, attention investment, and the psychology of programming at home. To appear in International Journal of Human Computer Studies.

Available online at: http://www.cl.cam.ac.uk/~afb21/tmp/home-programming-preview.pdf

Original abstract: We report a series of studies investigating the choices that users make between direct manipulation and abstract programming strategies when operating domestic appliances. We characterise these strategic choices in terms of the Attention Investment model of abstraction use. We then describe an experiment that investigates the estimation biases influencing the individual parameters of that model. These biases are linked to gender in a way that explains some gender differences in discretionary appliance use. Finally, we suggest design strategies that might compensate for those gender-linked estimation biases, and therefore make programmable features of future homes more accessible to a wider range of users.

Rubric for the reading group: Everyone attending is expected to read the paper in advance. Please bring a copy with you, preferably annotated with interesting reflections. The format of discussion will be a brief invited introduction/critique by two members of the group, followed by general discussion and informal mixing.