Deception and magic in collaborative interaction

We explore the ways in which interfaces can be designed to deceive users so as to create the illusion of magic. We present a study of an experimental performance in which a magician used a computer vision system to conduct a series of illusions based on the well-known „three cups‟ magic trick. We explain our findings in terms of the two broad strategies of misdirecting attention and setting false expectations, articulating specific tactics that were employed in each case. We draw on existing theories of collaborative and spectator interfaces, ambiguity and interpretation, and trajectories through experiences to explain our findings in broader HCI terms. We also extend and integrate current theory to provide refined sensitising concepts for analysing deceptive interactions. Author Keywords Deception, interaction, performance, magic, ambiguity, trajectories, feedthrough, misdirection, spectator interface. ACM Classification Keywords H5.m. Information interfaces and presentation (e.g...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2010
• Where: CHI
• Authors: Joe Marshall, Steve Benford, Tony P. Pridmore
• Keywords: Broader Hci Terms, CHI 2010, Cups‟ Magic Trick, Human Computer Interaction, Spectator Interface