Human-computer interaction (HCI) is becoming increasingly important in education. Jane Gruning, a doctoral student in the School of Information at the University of Texas at Austin, is researching how the medium of an object, in particular paper or digital books, affects its use.

In a five-page abstract, she outlines her dissertation research project that has a projected 2017 defense date. If individuals tend to perceive digital objects as ephemeral and “not real,” what influences this perception and what impact does this perception have on their interactions with these digital objects?

Her research methodology utilizes activity theory with an in-depth focus on six individuals involving diary studies and home tours of home and e-reader libraries. A brief discussion of the problem and research approach, expected contribution, and references conclude the paper. Gruning suggests that “the evolving design of e-books should focus on enhancing what those objects can do well, rather than mimicking paper books.”