Beyond ambient experience: An auditory display design framework for ubiquitous computing environments

Ubiquitous computing environments are becoming commonplace yet sound displays for them often lack consideration for contextual and embodied aspects. In addition, the audio displays have not been systematically examined as meaningful feedback. This thesis proposes a new framework for auditory display design for ubiquitous computing. The framework is created by synthesizing theories of acoustic communication and auditory display design; by designing and testing a ubiquitous computing prototype named socio-ec(h)o; and through a set of experimental studies focused on specific sound issues. Particular attention is given to an intensity-based gradient approach to feedback. This approach includes complex, environmental sound, and utilizes sonification principles that convey information, as well as support embodiment, sociality, and mediation in a ubiquitous computing setting. The study also examines the role of participatory design workshops and modified experimental studies informed by design methods as methodological innovations in the research of design and audio displays.