Tangible and Embodied Interaction

Tangible and embodied interaction (TEI) is a growing area of human–computer interaction (HCI) research that aims to expand opportunities for digital interaction through physical world objects, surfaces, and spaces by incorporating diverse sensing technologies and materials. As an approach to HCI design, TEI emphasizes the use of human motor skills and real-world social practices in the creation of digital technologies and experiences that unfold in physical spaces, away from the confines of the traditional desktop computer. From early examples of tangible user interfaces to an expanding focus on embodied interaction, the field has evolved and matured since its beginnings in the late 1990s. This chapter aims to provide an introduction to the field of TEI for students, researchers, and practitioners alike. It begins with an overview of the history, theoretical foundations, and emerging frameworks for the field and then dives into a review of TEI interactions and their underlying technical implementations. This is followed by a survey of application areas that have been addressed by the TEI community and a discussion of how these can provide value in people’s lives.