Following the final talk, the research labs in the Computer Science Department, Psychology Department, and the College of Library and Information Services opened their doors for public demonstrations. Most of the presenters from the morning talk sessions were present to discuss their research in detail and provide live demonstrations. A few projects which were not part of the morning's talks were also demonstrated. This joint project by Dr. Nancy Anderson of the HCIL and Dr. Glenn Pearson of Civilized Software, Inc. provides an alternative means for users to specify on-screen cursor positions. The input device consists of a small platform which supports the ball of the foot, while the user's heel remains in contact with the floor.
Position is detected by rotary encoders which turn as the platform is moved.
Nevertheless, it is difficult to ascribe an overall theme to the day, since it encompassed so much diverse work from several dozen researchers across several different departments. One emergent theme is user control. In a nontechnical vein, the overall theme that emerged from this visit is that these people really like what they're doing. Everyone we met showed great enthusiasm for the group and for the work they are doing.