1 Anthropomorphism Achilles J. Hamilothoris Comp October 2007

2 Anthropomorphism Objectives –Define Anthropomorphism –Give some examples –Pros/cons

3 Anthropomorphism The term is derived from two Greek words, ἄ νθρωπος (anthrōpos), meaning human, and μορφή (morphē), meaning shape or form.Greek Attributing human-like qualities to inanimate objects

4 Anthropomorphism

5 –People do it naturally in everyday lives »ExampleExample –Controversial debate in interaction design People feel more comfy Certain Age groups like certain things Certain people like certain things

6 Anthropomorphism People, especially children, have a high propensity to accept and enjoy Well-known phenomenon in advertising –Dancing butter, drinks, breakfast cereals Example Much exploited in human-computer interaction –Make user experience more enjoyable, more motivating, make people feel at ease, reduce anxiety

7 Which do you prefer? 1. As a welcome message “Hello, Chris! Nice to see you again. Welcome back. Now what were we doing last time? Oh yes, Exercise 5. Let’s start again.” As compared to: “User 24, commence Exercise 5.” But… What about thisWhat about this

8 Which do you prefer? 2. Feedback when get something wrong

9 Which do you prefer? 2. Feedback when get something wrong Is there a difference as to what you prefer depending on type of message? Why?

10 Activity

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12 Evidence to support anthropomorphism Reeves and Naas (1996) found that computers that flatter and praise users in education software programs -> positive impact on them “Your question makes an important and useful distinction. Great job!” Students were more willing to continue with exercises with this kind of feedback

13 Criticism of anthropomorphism Deceptive, make people feel anxious, inferior or stupid People tend not to like screen characters that wave their fingers at the user & say: –Now Chris, that’s not right. You can do better than that.Try again.” Many prefer the more impersonal: –“Incorrect. Try again.”

14 Pick your images Wisely

15 Choose Wisely Not trustworthy –virtual shop assistants? vs

16 Anthropomorphism Conclusion –Anthropomorphism - Attributing human-like qualities to inanimate objects –Gave some examples –Discussed Pros/cons – remember to use those User Interface Design Customer- centered procedures/tools!