Charting the Centaur : How to Design Digital Technology for Improvement of Rider Skill

Sammanfattning

This thesis builds a knowledge base that can guide product development and research aimed at tools for digital augmentation of rider skill. A design space was compiled based on an overview of current products in this and related fields. These products were evaluated and discussed with users in focus groups. Additionally, interviews with domain experts were performed for a more nuanced perspective. This information is combined with theoretical knowledge of the domains or riding and motor learning was structured and analysed into a modified version of an annotated portfolio to serve as an inspirational source for others. Insights derived from the annotated portfolio was used to build a model that illustrates the interplay between the domains of riding, technology, and motor learning. This model highlights key areas of interest such of horse-tech, edu-tech, and didactics and outlines design strategies suitable for each area. Additionally, design implications for the field are formulated with the intention to ensure that future product development will succeed in contributing to better riding experiences for both horses and riders. These design implications focus on the four main themes of co-embodiment, feedback design, embodied learning, and care for the horse.While the models and design implications are derived from the point of view of rider development, I propose that they, with domain appropriate modifications, hold value for other applications within the fields of sport, learning, and physical therapy.