Psychnology Journal 

About: Psychnology Journal is an academic journal. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Context (language use) & Mental health. It has an ISSN identifier of 1720-7525. Over the lifetime, 486 publications have been published receiving 4939 citations.

User adaptive BCIs: SSVEP and P300 based interfaces

Abstract: Brain Computer Interfaces (BCI) represent a new communication option for those suffering from neuromuscular impairment that prevents them from using conventional augmented communication methods. This new approach has been developing quickly during the last few years, thanks to the increasing of computational power and the new algorithms for signal processing (Independent Component Analysis, Wavelets decomposition, Support Vector Machine etc.) that can be applied to the studies made on brain waves. Here follows two methodologies of approach based on making the computer adapt to the human brain activity and not vice-versa. The P300 and the SSVEP based BCIs, here presented, have the characteristics of not demanding specific training to the user.

Cognition, technology and games for the elderly: An introduction to ELDERGAMES Project

Abstract: Eldergames is a EU-funded project to develop games using advanced visualisation and interaction interfaces to improve the cognitive, functional and social skills of older users. The project merges two major areas to which technology for elderly people is applied: health and social engagement. Its platform will allow users to improve their cognitive skills and individual well-being by playing on a mixed-reality platform; in addition, it will offer the unusual experience of communicating with people located in other countries without the need to share the same language. After introducing the field of gerontology and the project, this paper describes the main cognitive abilities that change with aging (perception, attention, memory, and other more specific processes such as decision-making), and that have to be taken into account while designing a technology for elderly people. Some guidelines that are specifically meant to ensure usability of these products are listed in the conclusions.

Developing Affective Lexical Resources

Abstract: Affective computing is advancing as a field that allows a new form of human computer interaction, in addition to the use of natural language. There is a wide perception that the future of human-computer interaction is in themes such as entertainment, emotions, aesthetic pleasure, motivation, attention, engagement, etc. Studying the relation between natural language and affective information and dealing with its computational treatment is becoming crucial. In this paper we present a linguistic resource for a lexical representation of affective knowledge. This resource (named WORDNET-AFFECT) was developed starting from WORDNET, through the selection and labeling of the synsets representing affective concepts.

Playing Online Games: Flow Experience

Abstract: Playing MUDs (Multi-User Dungeons, or Multi-User Dimensions), text-only online gaming environments, may initiate flow experience. Online survey research was administered within the population of Russian MUDs players, using the specially designed questionnaire with 3 blocks of questions: demography and experience in playing MUDs; flow experience; interactive patterns. Replies of respondents (N = 347) fit a six factor model: F1 (Flow experience); F2 (Achievement); F3 (Activity/Passivity); F4 (Interaction); F5 (Thoughfulness/Spontaneity); F6 (Cognition). To analyse the data, structural equation modeling was done. All the correlations between the factors are significant (p < 0.05). The set of dimensions describing flow experience while playing MUDs was selected. Since players experience flow while MUDding, it was proposed that flow is one of the sources of MUDs' long-time attractiveness for players.

Inclusive design and human factors: designing mobile phones for older users

Abstract: This paper reviews the human factors requirement s of mobile phones in order to facilitate inclusive design and provide older users with technological support that enhances their day to -day lives. Particular emphasis is placed on whether human factors requirements are fully considered and meet the needs of older users. The scope of this review is necessarily wide including: human factors, gerontology, inclusive design, technology and design research methodologies. Initial consideration is given to understanding what it means to be an older user and the ch anges that occur with the aging process. Older user requirements are examined in relation to achieving inclusive design solutions and the way in which human factors methodology can be used to support inclusive design goals. F rom this standpoint, attention is given to the design of mobile phones, considering how human factors issues are reflected in product design and context of use beyond the phone handset to the wider interaction environment. This paper does not propose specific direction from primary rese arch findings but argues for a ‘state of the union’ with regard to the current approaches designers and manufacturers adopt and the effects that design decisions have on potential end users. This paper argues that when effective and flexible human factors methodology and inclusive design ethos is integrated into the product development process global benefits to a wide user population can maximise inclusion as opposed to exclusion via technological advances.