Digitally complemented zoomorphism : a theoretical foundation for human-animal interaction design

Abstract

From an interspecies perspective, we advocate for a theoretical foundation aimed at facilitating further research towards digitally mediated human-animal interaction. The proposed framework follows an approach we call ‘digitally complemented zoomorphism’ and recognizes ‘play’ as a free and voluntary activity that is shared by both animals and humans. As a result, three initial design guidelines will emerge. Our work is pursued in order to provide animals with stimulations which stem from a closer understanding of their perceptions and are not solely designed around human subjectivity.