Urban computing in theory and practice

Abstract

In this paper we present a multi-themed discussion on urban computing. We call for a more transdisciplinary approach to the field, and point out that urban computing systems are always necessarily an amalgamation of three interrelated components -space, people, and technology. Because of these three elements, we argue that computer scientists cannot expect to stand alone and create systems that would respect the complex and messy sociocultural context in which these technologies operate. It is only through a deeper understanding of the existing social, cultural, and political contexts that we can hope to build deployments that respect and enhance the experience of living a technologically mediated life, and this understanding can only be achieved by including researchers from the social sciences as well as architecture and urban design. We will conclude by presenting our vision for a more transdisciplinary approach to urban computing.

Situated crowdsourcing during disasters: Managing the tasks of spontaneous volunteers through public displays

“…Urban computing is defined as "the amalgamation of cultural practices, everyday activities, and implicit values of specific people situated in a unique urban location that is defined both in terms of architectural qualities and cultural meanings. These are augmented by one or more technological systems that respect and support the aforementioned practices and activities in a non-intrusive way that enhances rather than redefines that given location" (Kukka et al, 2014). As Kukka et al (2014) therefore argue, researchers from the social science as well as architecture and urban are needed to support the deployment of public technologies in the wild.…”

“…These are augmented by one or more technological systems that respect and support the aforementioned practices and activities in a non-intrusive way that enhances rather than redefines that given location" (Kukka et al, 2014). As Kukka et al (2014) therefore argue, researchers from the social science as well as architecture and urban are needed to support the deployment of public technologies in the wild. Public displays have a representational function for the community at their location and provide an access point to it (Taylor and Cheverst, 2012).…”