Why we tell computers embarrassing things...

Using a computer to interview people is an effective method of eliciting information, especially when the information is of a personal or embarrassing nature, according to Dr Ramanee Peiris of the Division of Applied Computing. Ramanee shared these findings from her current research at a lecture to launch the opening of a University exhibition.

Timed to fit in with the celebrations for International Women's Day, the exhibition, entitled 'Her Own Sphere', celebrates the achievements and importance of Dundee's most famous female innovators within the field of science. Curator Jenny Brownrigg explains, "This exhibition explores women's relationship with science and how their role has shaped the University of Dundee. In 1881 the University's founder, Miss Mary Baxter, insisted that the college would be for promoting the education of both sexes in the study of science, literature and fine arts."

In her lecture, Ramanee discussed computer-based interviewing, computer-based therapy and on-line communities. She said, "The impersonal, non-judgmental, patient 'nature' of the computer seems to enhance the dialogue. In the future this human-computer interaction may be used in therapeutic situations."

The exhibition includes pieces by two DJCAD students Sabine Klaus, 4th year time based art, who has recently been short listed for Scottish Students on Screen 2005 and Gemma Stephenson, 4th year fine art. Jenny added, "Sabine hopes that her microscopic sized video installation will encourage women working in the field of science. She has created a booth containing a microscope which reveals her film shown on a micro-display screen. Footage of chromosomes, filmed while working in conjunction with scientists from the Wellcome Trust Biocentre, can be viewed in the cramped booth making the viewer more aware of size, space and environment."