Mech473

Abstract

Self-Diagnosing System. Standardized tests as self-replicating structures. Standardized tests and the machines that love them.

This project explores both the values and forms of common multiple choice tests and the subjective responses of the viewer. Computer vision (CV) and statistical machine learning technologies are the means to orchestrate this encounter between the viewer and the test, and to facilitate the ongoing interaction between the two.

Open Questions (To Be Addressed):

• optical character recognition / computer vision interface. (natural interface)
• optical mark reader (Scantron!)
• automated response / grading.
• are the results and the test stored in the same system? If so, that seems like a bit of a foregone conclusion.
• what does the user/viewer contribute? explore their own responses to questions while simultaneously learning the test, driving the computer
• engaging external circuits of meaning: sending tests into testing services. taking the SAT. hiring a therapist. getting an official diagnosis.
• exploring tests as cultural artifacts -- (for instance the 599 question MMPI)
  • implicit values
• physical form.
  • getting it off of the screen!
  • other modalities of response. sound? lights? motion? achievement certificates?

Timeline

Initial Phase

• Approach essential conceptual concerns through research and practical experimentation.
  • closed/open systems?
  • Emergent behavior--does the system evolve towards something? Is it goal-driven? If so, what are the goals.
  • Alternately, is the system simply playing out closed possibilities. (Every Icon).
  • Documentary/emulative behavior--does it record some trace of the viewer's/user's actions? Do they shape the emerging personality?

References

• Autopoesis, autpoetic systems. second-order cybernetics. Humberto Maturana and Francisco Varela.
• Kelly Dobson. Blendie. Machine Therapy. attachments between people and machines.
• Helicopter parents. parent warez. The Parent Bay (TPB).
• Voigt-Kampf Empathy Test. (Blade Runner).
• Tests:
  • Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory.
  • Beck Depression Inventory.
  • Beck Hopelessness Scale.
  • Weschsler Adult Intelligence Scale-revised. (WAIS R)
  • Weschsler Intelligence Scale for Children-revised. (WISC R)
• Tests in the News:
  • SAT question on Jersey Shore/Snooki.
  • Tiger Mother.