The Interaction Lab is a group of dedicated researchers that investigate challenges regarding cognitive abilities, physical abilities, social rules and practices, as well as environmental parameters that impact or determine human machine interactions. In accordance with AAU’s strategy, the team specializes in applied research with relevant regional and national stakeholders in the areas health, smart learning and spatial interaction. Due to its constitution, the Interaction Lab is not a regular HCI group but brings together individuals with diverse backgrounds, ranging from geo-informatics, over media technology, to participatory design.

Over the last years, the group has built up a strong research expertise in interaction with special needs groups like citizens with traumatic or congenital brain damage, dementia, dyslexia, as well as indigenous groups and kindergarten and school children (primary level). We tackle the challenges related to interaction design with these diverse user groups with a mix of methods, relying both on more qualitative approaches (ethnography, participatory design) as well as on quantitative effect studies and clinical trials.

The group is explores different technologies like mobile platforms, robots, wearables, eye-tracking, etc.; always in relation to the specific research question that is explored in the field. To this end we work closely together with external partners focusing on real world challenges. Our research is related to three specific themes (health, learning, space) but often transcends two or all of these themes for a concrete challenge.

The group is also very active in local, national, and international research networks, collaborations and scientific discussions, by memberships in scientific organizations, bilateral interactions, as well as organization of conferences and workshops.