Understanding Home Router Configuration Habits & AttitudesHome routers serve as a gateway to the Internet and configuration issues such as weak passwords can simply be introduced by users that configured them, potentially leading to severe consequences. The most critical phase in the lifecycle of a home router is perhaps the initial setup intended for users to complete. Yet, the mindset and behavior of users during this process remain under-explored. In a comprehensive online survey of 392 participants across several regions, we find that router settings and user behavior vary significantly between China and English-speaking countries, influenced by factors like IT background, age, gender, and education. A majority of participants go through the configuration of their own routers, but many also admit keeping the default settings and are not actively maintaining their router firmware up-to-date, leaving security vulnerabilities unfixed. We estimate that 91% of participant routers run with default settings, which should push router manufacturers to focus on safe defaults. Moreover, while default passwords are often changed, some participants report coping strategies. With noteworthy differences that we have observed across user backgrounds, we believe that our takeaways can shed some light on advancing the area of home network security.2025JYJunjian Ye et al.Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsPrivacy by Design & User ControlPasswords & AuthenticationPrivacy Perception & Decision-MakingCHI
A Systematic Review of Fitts’ Law in 3D Extended RealityFitts' law is widely used as an evaluation tool for pointing or selection tasks, evolving into diverse applications, including 3D extended reality (XR) environments like virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. Despite standards like ISO 9241:411, the application of Fitts' law varies significantly across studies, complicating comparisons and undermining the reliability of findings in 3D XR research. To address this, we conducted a systematic review of 119 publications, focusing on 122 studies that used Fitts' law in 3D XR user experiments. Our analysis shows that over half of these studies referenced Fitts' law without thoroughly investigating throughput, movement time, or error rate. We performed an in-depth meta-analysis to examine how Fitts' law is incorporated into research. By highlighting trends and inconsistencies, and making recommendations this review aims to guide researchers in designing and performing more effective and consistent Fitts-based studies in 3D XR, enhancing the quality and impact of future research.2025MAMohammadreza Amini et al.Concordia University, Department of Computer Science & Software EngineeringImmersion & Presence ResearchComputational Methods in HCICHI
Project TapTap: A Longitudinal Study Exploring Non-Verbal Communication through Vibration Signals Between Teachers and Blind or Low Vision Music LearnersWhile wearable haptics hold promise for making non-verbal cues like gestures and facial expressions accessible to blind or low-vision musicians, our understanding of how vibration signals can be interpreted and applied in real-world learning environments remains limited. We invited five music teachers and their seven students to participate in a ten-week longitudinal study involving observations, weekly catch-ups, group discussions, and interviews. We explored how wearable haptics could facilitate communication between sighted teachers and BLV students during one-on-one music lessons. We found that students and teachers derived particular meanings from vibration signals, including time-coded meaning, mutually agreed and intuitive meaning, and haptic metaphors. Additionally, wearable haptics significantly improved the experience of learning music for both sighted teachers and BLV students. We conclude by highlighting key design implications and outlining future research directions to create wearable haptics that significantly improve the music learning experience of BLV people.2025LLLeon Lu et al.Carleton UniversityVibrotactile Feedback & Skin StimulationHaptic WearablesSpecial Education TechnologyCHI
Folk Tales of IoT: Understanding the Impact of Stories on Users' Positive and Negative Perceptions of Smart Home IoT DevicesThis study examines how anecdotal stories from friends, peers, and online sources influence non-experts’ perceptions and behaviors toward smart home IoT devices. We surveyed 263 participants, collecting narratives that either positively or negatively influenced their perception of IoT devices, which they retold in text and comic formats to encourage deeper reflection. Thematic analysis of the narratives, combined with quantitative survey data, reveals that stories significantly impact trust and willingness to use and adopt IoT devices. Negative stories, particularly those concerning security, privacy, and device unreliability, reduced trust and usage, while positive stories about home safety through monitoring and improved quality of life increased interest in IoT devices. Perceptions of different IoT devices varied based on the themes associated with the stories. The findings highlight the powerful role of storytelling in driving consumer acceptance of technology.2025LZLeah Zhang-Kennedy et al.University of Waterloo, Stratford School of Interaction Design and BusinessPrivacy by Design & User ControlSmart Home Interaction DesignCHI
AI-Enabled Conversational Journaling for Advancing Parkinson's Disease Symptom TrackingJournaling plays a crucial role in managing chronic conditions by allowing patients to document symptoms and medication intake, providing essential data for long-term care. While valuable, traditional journaling methods often rely on static, self-directed entries, lacking interactive feedback and real-time guidance. This gap can result in incomplete or imprecise information, limiting its usefulness for effective treatment. To address this gap, we introduce PATRIKA, an AI-enabled prototype designed specifically for people with Parkinson's disease (PwPD). The system incorporates cooperative conversation principles, clinical interview simulations, and personalization to create a more effective and user-friendly journaling experience. Through two user studies with PwPD and iterative refinement of PATRIKA, we demonstrate conversational journaling's significant potential in patient engagement and collecting clinically valuable information. Our results showed that generating probing questions PATRIKA turned journaling into a bi-directional interaction. Additionally, we offer insights for designing journaling systems for healthcare and future directions for promoting sustained journaling.2025MRMashrur Rashik et al.University of Massachusetts AmherstHuman-LLM CollaborationChronic Disease Self-Management (Diabetes, Hypertension, etc.)Diet Tracking & Nutrition ManagementCHI
Exploring the Effects of Social VR Coupling Modes on Engagement and Task Performance for Older AdultsSocial Virtual Reality (VR) presents a promising avenue for older adults to connect with others and engage in collaborative activities remotely. However, many social VR experiences focus on individual tasks, reducing opportunities for meaningful social interaction. To investigate the potential of VR to enhance engagement with other participants, this paper explores two modes of coupling: (i) loosely coupled, where participants focus on their individual tasks within a collaborative setting, and (ii) tightly coupled, where participants need to rely on each other’s assistance to complete their tasks. We conducted a user study with 20 older adults to evaluate how these modes affect task performance and engagement. Results show that the tightly coupled mode, focused on collaboration, increases engagement, while the loosely coupled mode, centers on individual tasks, improves performance in time and attempts. We provide guidelines for collaborative VR applications to enhance social engagement and interaction among older adults.2025TVThuan T Vo et al.University of British ColumbiaSocial & Collaborative VRImmersion & Presence ResearchElderly Care & Dementia SupportCHI
Value Tensions in OpenStreetMap: Openness, Membership, and Policy in Online CommunitiesThe social life and long-term trajectories of online peer production communities are shaped and animated in part by value tensions that arise when distributed, heterogeneous participants are brought together into collaboration. This study of OpenStreetMap (OSM) draws upon values-based approaches to investigate how peer production communities enact their values and navigate tensions between them. We examine how conflicts within the community over the rise of corporate participation in OSM provided a stage for the articulation and enactment of community values, shedding light on the broader dynamics and trajectory of the platform and its participants. The contributions of this work include reflections on how increasing corporate participation in OSM intersects with discourses about the emancipatory potential of emerging mapping technologies, insights into the challenges of scaling membership in peer production communities, and exploring the role of values in understanding the social life and governance of online communities.2024ACAarjav Chauhan et al.Session 1d: Values and Practices in Crowdsourcing and Citizen ScienceCSCW
Facilitating the Parametric Definition of Geometric Properties in Programming-Based CADParametric Computer-aided design (CAD) enables the creation of reusable models by integrating variables into geometric properties, facilitating customization without a complete redesign. However, creating parametric designs in programming-based CAD presents significant challenges. Users define models in a code editor using a programming language, with the application generating a visual representation in a viewport. This process involves complex programming and arithmetic expressions to describe geometric properties, linking various object properties to create parametric designs. Unfortunately, these applications lack assistance, making the process unnecessarily demanding. We propose a solution that allows users to retrieve parametric expressions from the visual representation for reuse in the code, streamlining the design process. We demonstrated this concept through a proof-of-concept implemented in the programming-based CAD application, OpenSCAD, and conducted an experiment with 11 users. Our findings suggest that this solution could significantly reduce design errors, improve interactivity and engagement in the design process, and lower the entry barrier for newcomers by reducing the mathematical skills typically required in programming-based CAD applications2024JAJ Felipe Gonzalez Avila et al.Desktop 3D Printing & Personal FabricationCircuit Making & Hardware PrototypingUIST
A Comparative Long-Term Study of Fallback Authentication SchemesFallback authentication, the process of re-establishing access to an account when the primary authenticator is unavailable, holds critical significance. Approaches range from secondary channels like email and SMS to personal knowledge questions (PKQs) and social authentication. A key difference to primary authentication is that the duration between enrollment and authentication can be much longer, typically months or years. However, few systems have been studied over extended timeframes, making it difficult to know how well these systems truly help users recover their accounts. We also lack meaningful comparisons of schemes as most prior work examined two mechanisms at most. We report the results of a long-term user study of the usability of fallback authentication over 18 months to provide a fair comparison of the four most commonly used fallback authentication methods. We show that users prefer email and SMS-based methods, while mechanisms based on PKQs and trustees lag regarding successful resets and convenience.2024LLLeona Lassak et al.Ruhr University BochumPasswords & AuthenticationPrivacy Perception & Decision-MakingCHI
vARitouch: Back of the Finger Device for Adding Variable Compliance to Rigid ObjectsWe present vARitouch, a back-of-the-finger wearable that can modify the perceived tactile material properties of the uninstrumented world around us: vARitouch can modulate the perceived softness of a rigid object through a vibrotactile compliance illusion. As vARitouch does not cover the fingertip, all-natural tactile properties are preserved. We provide three contributions: (1) We demonstrate the feasibility of the concept through a psychophysics study, showing that virtual compliance can be continuously modulated, and perceived softness can be increased by approximately 30 Shore A levels. (2) A qualitative study indicates the desirability of such a device, showing that a back-of-the-finger haptic device has many attractive qualities. (3) To implement vARitouch, we identify a novel way to measure pressure from the back of the finger by repurposing a pulse oximetry sensor. Based on these contributions, we present the finalized vARitouch system, accompanied by a series of application scenarios.2024GVGabriela Vega et al.Max Planck Institute for Informatics, Saarland Informatics CampusVibrotactile Feedback & Skin StimulationHaptic WearablesCHI
A Quantitative Approach to Identifying Emergent Editor Roles in Open Street MapThe objective of this study was to investigate and classify the roles, or distinct contribution styles, adopted by participants within the OpenStreetMap (OSM) community. Using a quantitative analysis of mapping behaviors, we devised a methodology to identify distinct features associated with specific roles. We used an unsupervised clustering approach and unveiled eight discernible roles, or types of mapper in OSM. Each role displays specific patterns of mapping behaviors related to their habits and preferences for adding or editing map objects over time. We validated our roles, in part, using known affiliations with humanitarian and corporate organizations. Using these roles, we examine community composition and contributor retention over time. Our contributions include applying existing methods on the analysis of contributor behavior in online platforms to OSM, the identification of eight roles that can guide future research and design within OSM, and further understanding into the overall trajectory of the world's largest geospatial peer production community.2024BZBowen Zhang et al.University of TorontoGeospatial & Map VisualizationCommunity Collaboration & WikipediaCHI
Understanding the Challenges of OpenSCAD Users for 3D PrintingDirect manipulation has been established as the main interaction paradigm for Computer-Aided Design (CAD) for decades. It provides fast, incremental, and reversible actions that allow for an iterative process on a visual representation of the result. Despite its numerous advantages, some users prefer a programming-based approach where they describe the 3D model they design with a specific programming language, such as OpenSCAD. It allows users to create complex structured geometries and facilitates abstraction. Unfortunately, most current knowledge about CAD practices only focuses on direct manipulation programs. In this study, we interviewed 20 programming-based CAD users to understand their motivations and challenges. Our findings reveal that this programming-oriented population presents difficulties in the design process in tasks such as 3D spatial understanding, validation and code debugging, creation of organic shapes, and code-view navigation.2024JAJ Felipe Gonzalez Avila et al.Université de Lille, Carleton UniversityDesktop 3D Printing & Personal FabricationCircuit Making & Hardware PrototypingCHI
Exploring Rulebook Accessibility and Companionship in Board Games via Voiced-based Conversational Agent AlexaThe inaccessibility of rulebooks hinders the rule learning experience of board game players who are blind or have low vision (BLV). We conducted two qualitative studies to explore the design of conversational agents (CAs) that can support BLV players’ learning and provide companionship. In Study 1, we recruited 14 BLV participants and identified their rule learning challenges, with emphasis on cognitive load, and co-designed functional and social characteristics in Amazon Alexa that can support rule learning and offer companionship. We then developed a new Alexa skill and had 9 BLV participants evaluate our skill against the Alexa skill for the game Ticket to Ride (Study 2). We generated four design principles for CAs to support board game rule learning for BLV people: conciseness, pausing capacity, customization, and companionship.2023SKSaman Karim et al.Conversational ChatbotsVoice AccessibilityGame AccessibilityDIS
Wearable Identities: Understanding Wearables’ Potential for Supporting the Expression of Queer IdentitiesQueer identity research largely overlooks wearable technology. Most work exploring sociocultural considerations of wearable technology determines what is “socially acceptable” based on privileged bodies, excluding queer perspectives. We address this by establishing the foundations of a knowledge base for wearables that support queer expression. We conducted a two-phase qualitative study exploring queer expressive practices and wearable technologies through 16 semi-structured interviews and 15 body mapping workshops with the queer community. We observed themes framing the queer community’s understanding of queer expression, wearable technology, and wearable technology for queer users. Providing design considerations and discussions on the potential of our methods, our work enables the creation of wearable technologies that offer meaningful user experiences for the queer community. CAUTION: This paper discusses topics that could trigger those with histories of homophobia, transphobia, gender dysphoria, racism or eating disorders. Please use caution when engaging with this work.2023ABAdrian Bolesnikov et al.Carleton UniversityHaptic WearablesLGBTQ+ Community Technology DesignCHI
Goldwork Embroidery: Interviews with Practitioners on Working with Metal Threads and Opportunities for E-textile Hybrid Crafts Within the emerging field of e-textiles, goldwork embroidery (also known as metalwork) which uses metal threads and materials is an underexplored area, despite being a centuries-old practice in traditional crafts of different cultures. In this paper, we explore the material culture of textile goldwork to better understand how e-textile researchers can leverage their material properties, palette, and practices. First, we provide a historical background of English and European goldwork to give HCI researchers context on this craft field including technological and cultural influences. Then, we interview 13 contemporary goldwork practitioners on their creative practice to better understand the tools, techniques, and skills they employ. Our study findings show how goldwork practitioners deal with the unique constraints of metal threads and materials, and how these materials need to be handled differently than regular non-metal threads and fibers. Finally, we contribute guidelines and opportunities in the form of four concrete design recommendations for the field. Overall, this paper addresses a research gap on the potentials of goldwork and how we can leverage these practices for the future of e-textile hybrid crafts.2022LJLee Jones et al.Electronic Textiles (E-textiles)Textile Art & Craft DigitizationC&C
Patching Textiles: Insights from Visible Mending Educators on Wearability, Extending the Life of our Clothes, and Teaching Tangible CraftsTextiles have several characteristics that make them well suited for updates, sometimes called patching or mending, but textile repair is under-explored in the context of personal fabrication. This exploration is an urgent sustainability issue so we can extend the life of textiles and avoid producing more materials. In this paper we take a craft ethnography approach by interviewing 15 visible mending educators for insights into how they teach the techniques of repair and re-use so individuals can upcycle the textiles they already own. We discuss the values that menders bring to the practice, the teaching strategies they employ, the tangible teaching materials and tools of the practice, and introduce three types of teaching samplers: wearable samplers, sampler swatches, and practice samplers. Overall, these interviews provide insights for textile maker toolkits, textile personal fabrication, and how we can teach tangible hybrid crafts and sustainable making practices.2021LJLee Jones et al.Sustainable HCIEcological Design & Green ComputingTextile Art & Craft DigitizationC&C
It's So Difficult to Sever that Connection: The Role of FoMO in Users' Reluctant Privacy BehavioursThis paper provides empirical evidence of a link between the Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and reluctant privacy behaviours, to help explain a gap between users' privacy attitudes and their behaviours online (also known as the Privacy Paradox). Using Grounded Theory, we interviewed 25 participants and created a high-level empirically-grounded theory of the relationship between FoMO and reluctant privacy behaviours. We identify three main dimensions in which users feel pressured to participate even when they have privacy concerns, to avoid missing out. We discuss the implications of these results on the design of technologies, and how they may indicate systemic dark design.2021FWFiona Westin et al.Carleton UniversityPrivacy by Design & User ControlPrivacy Perception & Decision-MakingDark Patterns RecognitionCHI
“They think it’s totally fine to talk to somebody on the internet they don’t know”: Teachers’ Perceptions and Mitigation Strategies of Tweens’ Online RisksTeachers play a key role in educating children about digital security and privacy. They are often at the forefront, witnessing incidents, dealing with the consequences, and helping children handle the technology-related risks. However, little is reported about teachers' lived classroom experiences and their challenges in this regard. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 21 Canadian elementary school teachers to understand the risks teachers witness children aged 10--13 facing on digital media, teachers' mitigation strategies, and how prepared teachers are to help children. Our results show that teachers regularly help children deal with digital risks outside of teaching official curriculum, ranging from minor privacy violations to severe cases of cyberbullying. Most issues reported by teachers were the result of typical behaviours which became risky because they took place over digital media. We use the results to highlight implications for how elementary schools address digital security and privacy.2021SMSana Maqsood et al.Carleton UniversityUniversal & Inclusive DesignPrivacy Perception & Decision-MakingCyberbullying & Online HarassmentCHI
Understanding Fitness Tracker Users' Security and Privacy Knowledge, Attitudes and BehavioursPersonal data collected by fitness trackers can leave users open to security and privacy threats, often without their knowledge. Using an online survey with 212 fitness tracker users, we asked questions to understand participants' knowledge, attitudes and behaviours related to security and privacy, associated with the use of their fitness trackers. We found that users do little to protect their data. While they seem confident about the type of data being collected, they are unsure about how it is being used. Understandably, users are more comfortable sharing their data with friends and work colleagues. We also found that users differentiate between the types of data they are willing to share, suggesting a need for improved sharing preferences. When considering scenarios describing data uses with security and privacy implications, participants recognized that many scenarios were plausible but frequently felt that the scenarios were unlikely to occur. Overall, our findings lead us to believe that fitness tracker users require a greater awareness of the collection, ownership, storage, and sharing practices related to the tracking of their data.2020SGSandra Gabriele et al.York UniversityPrivacy by Design & User ControlPrivacy Perception & Decision-MakingCHI
"I'm hoping they're an ethical company that won't do anything that I'll regret": Users Perceptions of At-home DNA Testing CompaniesAt-home DNA testing has become increasingly popular due to the ability to be able to gain both ancestry and health information, as well as connect with others who share your DNA. Do users have reasonable mental models of how these systems work? Do users have privacy concerns and what do they understand as the benefits and risks involved? We conducted 27 interviews with Canadian users of at-home DNA testing companies. Our interviews covered perceived and desired data use, data management, data sharing practices, control over data, and any regrets. Our qualitative analysis revealed that many users have inconsistencies in their mental models and liken their DNA data to their data stored with existing technologies, such as social media, rather than health data. They are generally either dismissive of privacy concerns towards themselves or their relatives or they had not considered privacy in their choice. We discuss our findings and propose possible future work in this area.2020KBKhadija Baig et al.Carleton UniversityPrivacy by Design & User ControlPrivacy Perception & Decision-MakingCHI