Understanding of specific application areas of contemporary HCI.

Module Learning Outcomes Assessed

On completion of the assignment, students should have achieved the following learning outcomes (module learning outcomes can be found in full in the module handbook):

• MLO3: Understanding of specific application areas of contemporary HCI.

• MLO5: Demonstrate critical engagement with research, including with research papers, articles, etc.

Sample Answer

Contemporary Application Areas of Human–Computer Interaction (HCI)

Introduction

Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) focuses on how people interact with technology and how systems can be designed to improve user experience. Contemporary developments in HCI extend beyond traditional desktop systems and now influence mobile devices, virtual environments, wearable technology, and intelligent systems. This paper examines one significant application area, Virtual Reality (VR) in Healthcare, highlighting its principles, research developments, and social and ethical considerations.

VR in Healthcare: An HCI Application Area

Virtual Reality enables immersive, computer-generated environments that users can interact with in real time. In healthcare, VR is increasingly used for medical training, surgical simulation, rehabilitation, and mental health therapy.

From an HCI perspective, VR systems require careful design to ensure they are intuitive, safe, and accessible. This includes considering factors such as user comfort, cognitive load, and the accuracy of interaction methods. For example, in rehabilitation, patients may use VR environments to practise motor skills in a motivating and controlled setting.

Research studies, such as those by Pallavicini et al. (2019), show that VR-based rehabilitation can improve patient engagement and recovery outcomes. However, HCI specialists must address challenges like motion sickness, accessibility for users with disabilities, and data privacy.

Critical Engagement with Research

Recent scholarly work explores the integration of haptic feedback into VR healthcare systems, allowing users to feel physical sensations when interacting with virtual objects. According to Stevens et al. (2021), such feedback can enhance realism and effectiveness, especially in surgical training.

Furthermore, ethical considerations are central to HCI practice in healthcare VR. Data collected through VR systems, such as motion tracking and biometric responses, must be handled in compliance with regulations like GDPR. Research by Madary & Metzinger (2016) warns against psychological risks in prolonged immersive environments, reinforcing the need for responsible design.

Professional, Ethical, and Social Issues

HCI professionals must balance innovation with safety and inclusivity. In healthcare, this involves:

• Designing VR systems that accommodate different abilities and reduce exclusion.

• Protecting sensitive patient data.

• Minimising risks of over-reliance on simulated training without adequate real-world practice.

Continued...