Conference Agenda

Quantum Computing is a field at the cutting edge of computer science. Yet, an understanding of the basic mechanics of this domain remains confined to a relatively small group of experts across the world. With this Exploration, we pose the question: what might the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) have to offer Quantum Computing in terms of learnability and engagement? Grounded in our teams’ nascent research and design work in this space, this Exploration will extend an invitation to academics, designers, and other practitioners to explore the opportunities for HCI practices to support better learning and engagement outcomes within the field of quantum computing. Specifically, participants will be invited to explore how the properties of physical materials (e.g. weight, texture, movement, magnetism)  might be utilised to represent the highly abstract and often unintuitive principles of quantum computing concepts and make them more understandable to the average person.  

The Exploration will start with an overview of the basic concepts of quantum computing. This will be followed by a hands-on investigation into the use of provided physical materials to represent these concepts. Rapid prototyping and open exploration will be encouraged. Rather than aiming to develop fully-realised learning tools or strategies, we instead will open a dialogue within the DRS community to investigate early design concepts and potential avenues for physically capturing and representing the qualities of quantum materials.