Interaction and participation in collaborative storytelling systems

Abstract

Storytelling is one of the oldest models of cultural expression in human history. Thanks to the evolution of information technologies, the Web 2.0 paradigm has impacted in this field: some modern audiences actively participate in their favorite narrative worlds. We define Shared Narrative spaces as informative spaces concerning narratives created, developed and maintained through the collaboration of multiple authors. Our research aims to understand the perception of SNS using a HCI (human-computer interaction) lens, and to define the determinant factors affecting users’ interaction (exploration, comprehension and contribution) with them. We approach the issues of multiple authoring as an opportunity for collaboration through a storyline paradigm grounded on classic narratology, and use it to examine the users’ perception and exploration of SNS. We propose an analysis framework that suits the comparative analysis of narrative systems of very diverse nature, which allows us to study the interplay of fundamental HCI aspects. Finally, we lay out the bases of a general model to approach the design of a wide range of collaborative narrative systems.