Altered States of Consciousness in Human-Computer Interaction: A Review

A scoping review of HCI studies on technology-driven altered states of consciousness (ASC) finds that most research has focused on psychologically induced ASCs, with extended reality (XR) and embodied interaction being common tools. Prospective directions include physical artefact design that incorporates active body movements and game or play approaches. The review identifies four themes: induction methods, experiences through artefacts, types of artefacts, and the technology used. These findings provide design knowledge for researchers and practitioners creating ASC artefacts.

Study at a glance

Abstract

There has been increasing interest shown in experiences such as lucid dreams, hallucinations, or awe that arise in HCI. Altered States of Consciousness (ASC) is the umbrella term for these experiences, yet it has been subject to fragmented study, and design knowledge to help individuals working on technology-driven ASCs is lacking. This paper investigates HCI studies involving ASC artefacts through a scoping review. The findings relate to (1) ASC induction methods, (2) ASC experiences through artefacts, (3) ASC artefacts, and (4) the technology of ASC artefacts. The returned literature shows that HCI studies have mainly explored psychologically induced ASCs, and XR technologies and embodied interaction are widely used in ASC research. Meanwhile, physical artefact design including active body movements and the integration of games and play approaches featured as prospective directions. These results will contribute to the knowledge of those studying and designing ASC artefacts.