Ann Eisenberg
Research
Adjunct Professor
Co-Director, Craft Technology Group
Department of Computer Science
University of Colorado, Boulder
Campus Box 430
Boulder, CO 80309-0430
are software environments built in collaboration with my husband, Mike Eisenberg, for the design of three-dimensional paper sculpture.
Spatial Cognition
Creating HyperGami and JavaGami led us to investigate children’s spatial learning -- especially their conceptions about three-dimensional shapes, the way that they visualize the result of operations performed on shapes, and their hypotheses about the two-dimensional folding net counterparts of these shapes. My particular research focus is in the design of software environments to help children become more effective spatial thinkers. This was one of the chief motivations behind the design of JavaGami and is the topic of my dissertation research and other publications.
The Integration of Computers and Crafts
The development of HyperGami and JavaGami has grown into a more general interest in exploring the way that computers can enhance the design of real-world handicrafts. Work in this area involves the integration of computation with many forms of media -- including wood, plaster, acrylic, and fabric. Visit the Craft Technology Group’s website for more information about many different projects in these areas.
Collaborations
We are excited to collaborate with wonderfully creative folks from the PIE (Playfully Inventing and Exploring with Digital and Other Stuff) Network. Our most recent activity was Bay Area Maker Faire 2007, a two-day celebration of arts, crafts, engineering, and science.
paper sushi, generated in JavaGami
paper penguins, generated in HyperGami
