| Amplified Collaboration Environments (ACES) are integrated ubiquitous tools and spaces that support collaborative scientific investigation using advanced computation and visualization technologies. ACE, such as the Continuum, adapts information to be optimally displayed using a variety of technologies such as multiple-site video conferencing, interactive stereoscopic computer graphics, and high-resolution tiled displays backed by clusters of PCs connected over multi-gigabits networks. The goal of this research is to enhance collaboration among distantly located teams of experts gathered to intensively solve problems.; An exploratory design study was conducted to evaluate how small groups in distributed Continuum spaces perform information discovery and knowledge crystallization tasks using varying technology configurations. The goal of the design study was to explore design issues for enhancing the quality of cooperative work in ACES and to provide guidance to designers and facilitators of ACES. This dissertation discusses the design concept of ACEs, the findings of the design study, and the analysis of shared workspace model for ACEs. |
