Aims and scope

Behaviour & Information Technology (BIT)puts people before technology. As such it deviates from other related journals. It is the primary scientific venue for peer-reviewed publications on human-centred IT.

BIT reports original research studies, practical case studies, and thoughtful articles on:

• usability and user experience (UX)
• human computer interaction (HCI)
• human-centred and user-centred design
• the social, business and human aspects of the digital world.

The Journal attracts authors and readers from a variety of disciplines (e.g., usability, user experience, psychology, ergonomics, computer science, and sociology), originating from both academics and industry.

All papers are subject to initial appraisal by the Editor, and, if found suitable for further consideration, will undertake rigorous double anonymized peer review by independent, anonymous expert referees.

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Readership

Human-computer interaction researchers, software and system designers, cognitive ergonomists, psychologists.

All published research articles in this journal have undergone rigorous peer review, based on initial editor screening and anonymous refereeing by independent expert referees. 

Special Issue on Spatial Computing
Submission Date: 2024-11-20

Special Issue Editor(s)

Konstantinos Papangelis, Rochester Institute of Technology (USA)
kxpigm@rit.edu

Nick LaLone, Rochester Institute of Technology (USA)
Samuli Laato, Tampere University (Finland)
Jiagnan Xu, Rochester Institute of Technology (USA)
Sanzida Mojib Luna, Sanzida Mojib Luna
Garreth W. Tigwell, Garreth W. Tigwell

Spatial Computing is rapidly evolving beyond geographical relationships and into a realm where Mixed Reality (MR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), GPS, mobile technologies, and networks converge into a hybrid space. This integration facilitates not just dynamic visual content but also immersive experiences through audio, haptic feedback, and gesture-based interfaces. The result is a new collection of possibilities in various industries including gaming, education, design, and healthcare. In recent years, a growing number of applications empowered by Spatial Computing is flourishing. A notable example of this evolution is the Apple Vision Pro, which exemplifies the integration of these technologies.

Despite this rapid evolution, scholarly attention has tended to focus on the technology itself, rather than its application or consequence. Notably missing from the research discussion are factors regarding human-to-human interaction, and human-environment interaction, facilitated by human-computer interactions. This is becoming more important because when connecting people in a hybrid space, social interactions like coordination and collaboration quickly escape their current paradigm.

As the definition of “environment” is expanding from physical surroundings to a hybrid space, trust and territoriality gain new meanings. In addition, there are many questions surrounding the ethics of Spatial Computing that are yet to be asked, let alone answered. For example, Spatial Computing hardware like the Apple Vision Pro showcases interesting new spaces of interaction while raising questions about accessibility and user inclusivity.  This highlights the need for more comprehensive studies on how diverse (culturally, physically, and demographically) user groups interact with such technologies and the potential ethical implications. Only by examining the impact of Spatial Computing on human spaces can reveal how it influences individuals, groups of users, and society as a whole.

To this end, our special issue will explore how (will) Spatial Computing with the rise of new technological practices that are currently creating a range of possibilities, as well as challenges and potential solutions. This calls for an interdisciplinary approach in research, encompassing fields such as accessibility, social science, sociology, and media studies, to explore the nuanced ways these interactions influence socio-cultural dynamics and present new challenges and opportunities.

Accordingly, we invite scholars and practitioners from all related disciplines to contribute original and unpublished papers exploring the multifaceted aspects of Spatial Computing experiences and their implications. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

    Investigating the evolving perceptions of Spatial Computing concerning user experiences and emerging technologies.
    Examining emerging forms of interaction enabled by Spatial Computing, such as audio, haptic feedback, and gesture-based interfaces, and their implications for user interaction and engagement.
    Assessing the socio-economic, environmental, and cultural aspects addressed by Spatial Computing technologies.
    Discussing ethical and accessibility considerations for designers and users of Spatial Computing applications.

We welcome contributions that delve into the human-centered aspects of spatial computing, aiming to shed light on the evolving relationship between technology and user experiences while addressing socio-cultural, accessibility, and ethical implications and potential challenges.