Abstract

Keywords:
Interaction Design, Augmented Reality, AR, Extended Reality, XR, Aged Care, Human-Computer Interaction, Design for Health, Engagement, Experience Design, Interactive Art, Creative Engagement

Creating Conversations is an interactive augmented reality (AR) art experience designed to prompt public discussion about the Australian aged care system. A recent Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has revealed critical, systemic problems in the Australian aged care system – including substandard care and patient neglect, as well as funding issues. Despite the significance of the findings, they received limited attention in the media and public dialogue. This paper describes the creation of a novel solution – an AR artwork – to prompt conversation about the Australian aged care system. Drawing on the lengthy and complex Commission reports and the thousands of public submissions, the artwork instead provides direct insights of the personal experiences of those impacted by the flawed system. This paper describes the artwork, the technology, and the design decisions made during its creation – including how the personal public submissions to the Royal Commission have informed the artwork. The objective of this artwork is to deeply engage the audience, sustain their attention over time, and offer an experience that continues the connections created beyond the time of interaction. It explores the effectiveness of AR and design in initiating meaningful conversations, breaking down communication barriers, and improving awareness about the available resources and services in the Australian aged care system.

• Niharika Shah, School of Design, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
• Dr. Jennifer Seevinck, School of Design, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
• Dr. Heather McKinnon, School of Design, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia