Jen Southern

HeartLink: open broadcast of live biometric data to social networks

A number of studies in the literature have looked into the use of real-time biometric data to improve ones own physiological performance and wellbeing. However, there is limited research that looks into the effects that sharing biometric data with others could have on ones social network. The video documents the design and development of HeartLink, a system that collects real-time personal biometric data such as heart rate and broadcasts this data online to anyone. Insights gained on designing systems to broadcast real-time biometric data are presented. The video also reports on the key results from testing HeartLink in two studies that were conducted during sport events.

Watch this space: From collective to collaborative uses of locative media

In 2000 the restriction of high quality global positioning system (GPS) data ended, making everyday use of GPS possible and affordable, for route planning, navigation and even to draw pictures on the Earths surface. Since that date artists have been exploring the use of GPS as an expressive and social medium. This paper focuses upon the capacity for locative media to support the social discussion of place. Beginning with the work of established artists and researchers who use GPS, the authors highlight a tendency in the works to engage with individuals in the field, but to discuss social aspects at a distance. In attempting to allow social reflection upon a place in ‘real-time’, the authors have developed a novel technical and conceptual twist on the use of GPS data that allows them to sustain live spatial/social dialogues.