Abstract
Expressive activity is embodying for others something that is in one's own mind. It is a complex and delicate activity integrating processes of conception, embodiment, and refinement. The tools and locations for expressive activity must draw forth participants' expressive ability by balancing freedom and constraint. How should such tools and locations be designed to foster expression activity?
Tools for expression using computers may impose new restrictions even as they bring freedom from physical constraints. For example, educational tools that use computers for expressive activity, such as LEGO, suggest new possibilities for expression by building a realm of new constraints into the computer. We wish to propose a framework for designing such distinctive tools and to clarify the design characteristics and challenges of stimulating expression through their use.
