Watching Animal-Computer Interaction: Effects on Perceptions of Animal Intellect

Abstract

Watching animals use digital technology is known to affect our attitudes towards them, but there has been little empirical study of this topic. There is a need for greater understanding of how technology can shape people's perceptions of other species, since human attitudes are a significant factor in animal welfare. We studied the effects of a digital installation, created as enrichment for zoo-housed orangutans. It was hypothesised that seeing the installation in use would strengthen zoo visitors’ perceptions of orangutans’ intellect and strengthen support for their conservation. Effects were investigated through visitor interviews (n=39) and surveys (n=101), comparing responses of people who saw the installation with those who did not. Seeing primates use the digital installation was found to be associated with stronger attribution of cognitive abilities. Watching animals comprehend game rules, and seeing their human-like patterns of interaction seemed to contribute to this effect. However, no overall impact was found on attitudes to orangutan conservation. This research provides insights into the potential effects of animal-computer interaction on the attitudes of human observers, and suggests avenues for technology design to strengthen people's understanding of animal minds.