Exploring the Experience of Becoming and Unbecoming a Cyborg Using Performing Arts Techniques

Abstract

The project proposes using performing arts techniques to aid people in becoming and unbecoming a cyborg. Cyborgs are human-machine hybrids with organic and mechatronic body parts which can be implanted or worn. The transition into and out of experiencing additional body parts is not fully understood. This project draws from techniques used by actors for their performances to facilitate the experience of becoming and unbecoming a cyborg. A study where actors entered a cyborg state, performed as a cyborg, and then exited from that cyborg state was conducted. The observations suggest that these techniques can be useful in technology augmented experiences. Furthermore, to translate the lessons learned from the actor study to a cyborg user context, a design session was formulated and conducted and the data was analyzed. The results of this design session informed the specification of a prospective prototype that supports the performing arts techniques. Finally, a discussion of the project limitations as well as future work is presented.