In this study, we developed a system to quantitatively evaluate self-study attitudes based on biometric information, with a specific focus on the number of blinks, head swaying, and brainwaves. The experiment involved 24 students from a Kanagawa Prefectural high school, and they participated in two sets of 20-minute self-study sessions. We compared the system evaluation values derived from biometric information with evaluations provided by teachers. “Teacher Evaluation” was based on the “Proactive attitude toward learning.” As a result, 95.45% of valid data aligned with teacher evaluations, providing data that could assist teachers (with a difference of 1 or less between Teacher Evaluation and System Evaluation). The utilization of system-calculated values for assessing learning attitudes has the potential to enable teachers to conduct fair and efficient grading processes.

Psychophysical and affective experiences while watching audiovisual content can be antecedents to determine the overall evaluation of viewing experiences. However, the layered relationships among these experiences have been hardly discussed. We investigated these experiences and their semantic structure while watching hug scenes. We selected 38 adjectives describing hugs and classified them into three layers: psychophysical, affective, and overall evaluation. Participants scored each of the 24 videos containing hugging scenes using these adjectives. The structure among the three layers was computed: the four psychophysical factors affected the four affective factors, which in turn affected the two overall evaluation factors, i.e., joyful and reassuring. The model was confirmed to have statistical validity by structural equation modeling and semantic validity by experiments using dummy links. The results will lead to the determination of measures to enhance affective experiences when viewing videos, and the formulation of criteria for measuring and evaluating affective experiences.

For over 40 years, Kansei-based research and development have been conducted in Japan and other East Asian countries and these decades of research have influenced Kansei interpretation. New methods and applications, including virtual reality and artificial intelligence, have emerged since the millennium, as the Kansei concept has spread throughout Europe and the rest of the world. This paper reviews past literature and industrial experience, offering a comprehensive understanding of Kansei, the underlying philosophy, and the methodology of Kansei Engineering from the approach of psychology and physiology, both qualitatively and quantitatively. The breadth of Kansei is described by examples, emerging from both industry and academia. Additionally, thematic mapping of the state-of-the-art as well as an outlook are derived from feedback obtained from structured interview of thirty-five of the most distinguished researchers in Kansei. The mapping provides insights into current trends and future directions. Kansei is unique because it includes the consideration of emotion in the design of products and services. The paper aims at becoming a reference for researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders across borders and cultures, looking for holistic perspectives on Kansei, Kansei Engineering, and implementation methods. The novelty of the paper resides in the unification of authors amongst pioneers from different parts of the world, spanning across diversified academic backgrounds, knowledge areas and industries.