CSCW: Representations of Digital Identity

Representations of Digital Identity
URL :: http://sims.berkeley.edu/~dmb/cscw2004-identity/

CSCW Workshop: Saturday November 6, 2004 - Chicago
Position Paper Deadline: September 20, 2004 - cscw04-identity@googlegroups.com

The human body operates as a rich site for information. As we pass through the world, we give off information about cultural identity (ethnicity, sex, age, etc), social class, individual personality (through dress or physical alterations) and psychological state (through movement and tone of voice). These cues help others determine the appropriate modes of interaction with us. In computer-mediated communication (CMC), the performance of identity occurs not through direct experience of the body but within the constraints of digital representations constructed by interactive systems.

This workshop will address the many ways by which online presentations of self have been ­ and could be ­ constructed. In the absence of the body as a source of accountability and social legibility, individuals project a sense of self through multiple layers of mediation, including email addresses, graphic avatars, "friend lists," and results from search engines. How can we use the body in a mediated world? Or alternately, how can we promote rich modes of interaction that do not rely on the illusion of physical presence?

Moving from current practices to future scenarios, the workshop will use a design exercise to produce a conceptual framework promoting accountability, expression, and trust in online interactions. We invite contributions from researchers exploring social aspects of CMC, including, but not limited to: blogging, gaming, online dating, mobile and ubiquitous social devices. Furthermore, researchers interested in reputation, trust, privacy and vulnerability; social networks, identity, persistent conversations, and context are encouraged to apply.

Participants will be selected based on demonstrable interest in the topic, as seen through position papers submitted prior to the workshop.

Proposals should consist of
- A sketch, design, or other constructed representation of digital identity; alternatively, a collage of existing representations of digital identity
- A 1-page discussion of the critical issues considered in this representation and the process of producing it.
- A 1-page discussion of background, interests, current work and motivation for participating in this workshop

Acceptable submission formats include: Word, PDF, HTML, Flash, Quicktime, etc.

Organizers:
- danah boyd :: http://www.danah.org/
- Michele Chang :: http://www.intel.com/research/people/bios/chang_m.htm
- Elizabeth Goodman :: http://www.confectious.net/
Contact organizers if you are concerned about the submission format: danah boyd, Michele Chang, Elizabeth Goodman (cscw04-identity@googlegroups.com)