The Tiresias Effect: Feedforward using Light versus Temperature in a Tangible User Interface

In this paper we discuss how light and temperature information can be designed to affect feedforward in a tangible user interface (TUI). In particular we focus on temperature, which has not been widely considered as a mode of information representation in feedback or feedforward. We describe a prototype that implements both information modes in a TUI. Finally, we outline a user study in which these modes are explored as feedforward coaching devices for a decision-making task. The expected outcomes are an understanding of the role of temperature as information for feedforward in TUIs and a set of design guidelines for designers of tangibles working with these physical characteristics.