PhD Topic

 

Visual Mnemonics for the storage and retrieval of audio-visual digital media in creative projects

 

 

Supervisor(s): Prof Ernest Edmonds and Prof Ross Gibson

 

 

Abstract

 

There is a problem with storing and retrieving certain classes of digital audio-visual media files using information and communication technologies that employ text-based indexing systems. Representations specific to their creators, whether home movie buffs, documentary film-makers or artists, do not currently have access to tools or systems that satisfactorily address image-based file storage.

This research plans to use practice-based research to investigate the precept of a taxonomy using visual mnemonics. The objective is to advance our understanding of the most effective means by which creators and audiences, could be enabled to store and retrieve the media files with which they work.

Design approaches will explore a range of possible practical purposes and outcomes including the creation of interactive journals and diaries and augmented memory systems for public exhibition.

 

 

Objectives

 

To explore HCI design options for storage and retrieval systems for digital video, using a taxonomy of indexing based not on text but on the mnemonics inherent within the sourced visual media. To advance our understanding of the most effective means by which creators and audiences, could be enabled to efficiently store and retrieve audio-visual digital media files which are important to creative expression.

 

á       Mnemonic - a device to aid the memory; (in later use) spec. a pattern of letters, ideas, or associations which assists in remembering something. (OED)

 

á       Taxonomy of indexing: classification of order and associations, defined by user/author

 

 

Expected outcomes

 

¥ A series of design options for the storage and retrieval of digital video based on visual mnemonics, for specific groups of Ômemory workersÕ:

 

a)              the individual artist/author/designer

 

b)              the specialist community

 

c)              the general audience

 

 

¥ An artwork that demonstrates (a) the individual artist/author/designer.