Abstract
The term affective computing refers to IT systems and devices designed to discern human emotions, respond to the user on the basis of what they perceive, and, in some cases, represent human emotion to users. Affective computing captures signals from human users through cameras, microphones, skin sensors, or other means, collecting information about facial expression, voice tone, gestures, and other variables that can indicate emotional state. Such systems can engage users at a deeper level, providing what feels more like a human relationship and potentially helping users better understand themselves and the emotional responses of other people.
The 7 Things You Should Know About... series from the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative (ELI) provides concise information on emerging learning technologies. Each brief focuses on a single technology and describes what it is, where it is going, and why it matters to teaching and learning. Use these briefs for a no-jargon, quick overview of a topic and share them with time-pressed colleagues.
In addition to the 7 Things briefs, you may find other ELI resources useful in addressing teaching, learning, and technology issues at your institution. To learn more, please visit the ELI Resources page.