Affective Computing

The Next Generation of AI

Ian Gerszewski

Affective Computing Defined

Wikipedia: Affective computing is a branch of artificial intelligence that deals with the design of devices which can process emotions. It is an interdisciplinary field spanning computer sciences, psychology, and cognitive science.
MIT: Affective computing is computing that relates to, arises from, or deliberately influences emotion or other affective phenomena.

The Goal of Affective Computing

To restore a proper balance between emotion and cognition in the design of technologies for addressing human needs.

Why Affective Computing

Emotion is fundamental to human experience
Emotion influences cognition, perception, and everyday tasks such as learning, communication, and even rational decision-making.

Technology developers have largely ignored emotion and creating an often frustrating experience for people.

Methods For Measuring Affect

Facial affect recognition Physiological sensors
Blood pressure and pulse sensors Skin conductance receptors

Brain waves
Implants EEG

Current Uses
EmoteMail
Shows how much thought went into mail Gives snapshots of writers face

Ergonomics
Software to reduce symptoms of stress

Autism
Help recognize emotions in autistic children

Potential Uses
HCI
Affective Email Affective Music Affective Responses New ways to interact with computers

Alternative User Interfaces

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Alternative User Interfaces

Potential Uses
Monitoring Society
Road Rage Preventing Homicides

Potential Uses
Medical
Diabetics Psychological Disorders Counseling Carpel Tunnel Disabilities

Potential Problems
Misinterpretations
Unwanted Interference
Interruptions during time-critical tasks Annoying and/or Unwanted help
E.g.

Any Questions?